Aminoglycosides (Streptomycin, Monomycin, Kanamycin, etc.)

Aminoglycosides (Streptomycin, Monomi-Cin, Kanamycin, etc.)

Aminoglycosides are a class of antibiotics that are used to fight various infections caused by gram-negative bacteria. These antibiotics have a strong bactericidal effect and excellent activity against many types of bacteria. However, when using aminoglycosides, their ototoxic and nephrotoxic effects must be taken into account.

The selective nephrotoxic effect of aminoglycosides manifests itself in the development of acute renal failure. A single oral ingestion of a high dose of an antibiotic (over 10 g) can cause oliguria, which develops more often with a markedly reduced diuresis and a lower daily dose of the drug, but with longer use.

The ototoxic effect of aminoglycosides manifests itself in damage to the auditory nerve and can lead to various hearing impairments, including deafness. These complications may develop during the first days after taking the antibiotic.

To treat complications caused by the use of aminoglycosides, hemodialysis or forced diuresis must be indicated. For hearing loss in the first 1-3 days after poisoning, special treatment methods are also indicated.

Despite their high effectiveness in combating infections caused by gram-negative bacteria, aminoglycosides should be used with caution and only under medical supervision. To avoid complications, it is necessary to strictly follow the recommendations for dosage and duration of treatment, as well as regularly monitor the patient’s kidney and hearing function.