Faropenem vs. Meropenem — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 1, 2024
Faropenem is an orally administered penem antibiotic, effective against a wide range of bacteria, while meropenem is an intravenous carbapenem antibiotic used for severe infections.
Difference Between Faropenem and Meropenem
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Faropenem is taken orally, making it suitable for outpatient treatment of infections like urinary tract infections and sinusitis. Meropenem, on the other hand, is administered intravenously, often used in hospital settings for acute, severe infections such as bacterial meningitis.
While faropenem offers convenience and ease of use in non-severe cases, meropenem is crucial for managing critical conditions where high antibiotic levels in the blood are needed quickly.
Faropenem has a broad spectrum of activity that includes many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Meropenem extends this spectrum further, including more resistant strains and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a key pathogen in hospital-acquired infections.
Due to its oral form, faropenem is less likely to cause severe side effects typically associated with intravenous therapy, such as phlebitis. Conversely, meropenem, given its IV administration, requires careful monitoring for reactions at the infusion site.
Faropenem's role in therapy tends to complement the broader antibiotic regimens, providing a step-down option from intravenous therapy. Meropenem often serves as a first-line agent in life-threatening infections, where immediate, potent intervention is necessary.
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Comparison Chart
Administration
Oral
Intravenous
Indications
Mild to moderate infections
Severe and complicated infections
Spectrum of Activity
Broad, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
Extremely broad, including more resistant bacteria and Pseudomonas
Typical Side Effects
Gastrointestinal disturbances
Infusion-related reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances
Usage Context
Outpatient settings
Hospital settings, critical care
Compare with Definitions
Faropenem
It has a safety profile that is favorable for long-term therapy.
Faropenem was used for its lower risk of severe side effects in long-term use.
Meropenem
A carbapenem antibiotic administered via IV, effective against severe bacterial infections.
Meropenem was administered to treat the patient's bacterial meningitis.
Faropenem
Effective against various susceptible bacteria, often used in respiratory and urinary tract infections.
Faropenem was chosen for its efficacy against the patient's urinary infection.
Meropenem
It is essential in the management of multi-drug resistant bacterial infections.
Meropenem is the preferred option for combating multi-drug resistant infections in the ICU.
Faropenem
An oral penem antibiotic used for bacterial infections.
A doctor might prescribe faropenem for a persistent sinus infection.
Meropenem
Known for its rapid action and broad-spectrum efficacy in intensive care units.
The critical care team initiated meropenem treatment due to its broad coverage.
Faropenem
Faropenem is an orally active beta-lactam antibiotic belonging to the penem group. It is resistant to some forms of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase.
Meropenem
Meropenem, sold under the brand name Merrem among others, is an intravenous β-lactam antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Some of these include meningitis, intra-abdominal infection, pneumonia, sepsis, and anthrax.Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, rash, and pain at the site of injection.
Faropenem
An orally active beta-lactam antibiotic belonging to the penem group.
Meropenem
(medicine) A broad-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic used to treat meningitis and pneumonia
Common Curiosities
What is faropenem used for?
Faropenem is used to treat various bacterial infections, primarily in outpatient settings.
How is meropenem administered?
Meropenem is administered intravenously, typically in hospital settings.
Is meropenem effective against all bacteria?
Meropenem has a very broad spectrum of activity, but some bacteria may develop resistance.
How quickly does meropenem work?
Being an IV antibiotic, meropenem works quickly and is often used in acute settings.
What are common side effects of faropenem?
The most common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhea.
Can faropenem be used in children?
Yes, faropenem can be used in children at doses adjusted for age and weight.
Can faropenem treat severe infections?
Faropenem is generally used for mild to moderate infections, while severe infections may require stronger, intravenous antibiotics like meropenem.
Is meropenem safe during pregnancy?
Meropenem should only be used in pregnancy when clearly needed, as the risks and benefits need careful consideration.
What are the key differences in the spectrum of activity between faropenem and meropenem?
Meropenem covers more resistant strains and types of bacteria compared to faropenem.
Can I switch from meropenem to faropenem during treatment?
Switching from IV to oral therapy, such as from meropenem to faropenem, depends on the patient's progress and infection severity.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
