Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Between Two Meropenem Dosing Strategies in an Obese Population

None of the authors have any disclosures. • Carbapenems are broad-spectrum antibiotics that demonstrate time dependent, bactericidal activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. − The target pharmacodynamic index for carbapenems is a free drug concentration above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for approximately 40% of the dosing interval (~40%fT>MIC)1-6 • Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PKPD) studies have demonstrated similar target attainment rates (>40fT>MIC) between the conventional meropenem dosing strategy (1g IV every 8 hours) and an alternative dosing strategy (500mg IV every 6 hours) 1-3 − Differences in meropenem PK properties have been identified in obese patients4-6 • Clinical studies have demonstrated similar patient outcomes and increased cost savings with the alternative meropenem dosing strategy as compared with the traditional dosing approach1-3 − Limited clinical outcomes data are currently available comparing the two meropenem dosing strategies in obese patients4-6 • Given the rise in antimicrobial resistance and the prevalence of obesity in the United States, additional data are needed to confirm the clinical appropriateness of using carbapenem regimens that result in lower total daily doses.