Amikacin
Amikacin (pronounced: a-mi-KAY-sin) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used primarily in the treatment of severe bacterial infections. It is derived from the antibiotic kanamycin and is known for its strong bactericidal activity.
Etymology
The name "Amikacin" is derived from the parent compound, kanamycin. The prefix "Ami-" is a modification indicating its semi-synthetic nature.
Pharmacology
Amikacin works by binding to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting protein synthesis and leading to bacterial cell death. It is particularly effective against Gram-negative bacteria, but also has activity against some Gram-positive bacteria.
Usage
Amikacin is used in the treatment of a variety of severe bacterial infections, such as tuberculosis, sepsis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. It is often used when other antibiotics are ineffective due to bacterial resistance.
Side Effects
Potential side effects of amikacin include ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and allergic reactions. Due to these risks, it is typically reserved for more severe infections where other antibiotics have failed.
Related Terms
- Aminoglycoside
- Antibiotic
- Bacterial infection
- Gram-negative bacteria
- Gram-positive bacteria
- 30S ribosomal subunit
- Protein synthesis
- Tuberculosis
- Sepsis
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infection
- Ototoxicity
- Nephrotoxicity
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amikacin
- Wikipedia's article - Amikacin
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