Artery of Percheron

An antibiotic used in veterinary medicine

Apramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic primarily used in veterinary medicine. It is effective against a range of Gram-negative bacteria and some Gram-positive bacteria. Apramycin is particularly used in the treatment of infections in livestock such as cattle, pigs, and poultry.

Structure and Mechanism of Action

Apramycin is a member of the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics, which are known for their ability to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis. The structure of apramycin includes a unique bicyclic sugar moiety that distinguishes it from other aminoglycosides. This structure allows apramycin to bind to the bacterial ribosome, specifically the 30S subunit, thereby interfering with the translation process and ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.

Spectrum of Activity

Apramycin is effective against a variety of Gram-negative bacteria, including species of the genera Escherichia, Salmonella, and Klebsiella. It also shows activity against some Gram-positive bacteria, although its primary use is against Gram-negative pathogens. The antibiotic is particularly useful in treating infections caused by bacteria that are resistant to other aminoglycosides.

Clinical Use in Veterinary Medicine

In veterinary practice, apramycin is used to treat bacterial infections in animals such as pigs, cattle, and poultry. It is often administered orally or via injection, depending on the species and the specific infection being treated. Apramycin is used to manage conditions such as colibacillosis in pigs and poultry, and bacterial enteritis in calves.

Resistance

Bacterial resistance to apramycin can occur, as with other antibiotics. Resistance mechanisms include the modification of the antibiotic target site, enzymatic inactivation of the drug, and efflux pump mechanisms that expel the antibiotic from the bacterial cell. The use of apramycin is carefully regulated to minimize the development of resistance.

Safety and Side Effects

Apramycin is generally well-tolerated in animals, but like all aminoglycosides, it can have nephrotoxic and ototoxic effects, particularly with prolonged use or at high doses. Careful dosing and monitoring are essential to minimize these risks.

Regulation and Approval

Apramycin is approved for use in veterinary medicine in several countries, but its use is subject to strict regulations to ensure animal welfare and food safety. The withdrawal period for apramycin-treated animals must be observed to prevent antibiotic residues in meat and other animal products.

Related pages

• Aminoglycoside
• Antibiotic resistance
• Veterinary medicine
• Bacterial infection

Gallery

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  Chemical structure of Apramycin