Safety of megadose meropenem in the empirical treatment of nosocomial sepsis: a pilot randomized clinical trial.

As resistance to antibiotics is increasing among microbes, rational use of these drugs is important both in the community and in hospitals. Many infections with resistant microorganisms may be fatal. For a long time, carbapenems have been the last resort for treatment of resistant microorganisms. Unfortunately, resistance to these drugs is increasing. It appears that use of higher doses of antibiotics may help in some cases. However, the potential harm caused by higher doses is a problem. In this primary study, higher doses of meropenem, a common carbapenem, were found to be safe.