Amikacin is a broad spectrum antibiotic with an antimicrobial action similar to that of gentamicin and tobramycin. The amikacin interferes with the process of protein synthesis: the formation and accumulation of aberrant peptides, in addition to compromising the biochemical and metabolic properties of the bacterium, it damages the plasma membrane, causing the loss of potassium that is inevitably accompanied with cell disruption.
What is Amikacin?
Amikacin is part of the group of aminoglycosides, antibiotics used for the treatment of infections sustained by microorganisms that are generally resistant to therapy with beta-lactams. It is particularly active on Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia, Proteus, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, and Escherichia coli, which are resistant to gentamycin and other aminoglycosides. It is also administered in the treatment of serious infections sustained by Gram-negative bacilli (particularly enterobacteria) and infections caused by strains of bacteria resistant to gentamicin and tobramycin.
How should Amikacin be taken?
The amikacin is typically administered parenterally.
Side effects associated with Amikacin
Among the less serious side effects and transients caused by the use of this drug are included:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, vomiting;
- Cardiovascular disorders: hypotension;
- Blood disorders: anemia, eosinophilia;
On the other hand, the more serious side effects caused by this medication may include:
- Auditory-vestibular disorders: tinnitus, vertigo, deafness;
- Kidney disorders: albuminuria, hematuria, cylindruria, hyperazotemia, an increase in creatinine serum;
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Amikacin
Given the absence of clinical trials that can characterize the therapeutic efficacy and the safety profile for the fetus, the use of amikacin during pregnancy and breast-feeding is generally contraindicated.
