Amikacin

    • What type of medicine is this?

    • This medicine is an antibacterial medicine that belongs to the aminoglycosides class. It is available as a prescription-only injection given by a trained healthcare provider.

    • What is the medicine used for?

    • Amikacin is an antibiotic used to treat life-threatening infections like meningitis, tuberculosis and lung infections. It belongs to a class of antibacterials called Aminoglycosides. It is available as an injection to be given by a trained healthcare provider only.

      You should tell your healthcare provider if you have ear or kidney problems since they can become worse with this medicine. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to aminoglycosides.

    • How to take this medicine?

      • Amikacin can be injected three times a day (8 hourly) or twice a day (12 hourly) depending on how severe the infection is.
      • You should only take this medicine if your healthcare provider prescribes it for you, and when it is administered by trained medical staff.
      • Use this medicine for the period of time you are told to use it, especially if it is part of your tuberculosis treatment at home. Do not stop receiving the medicine even if you feel better already.
      • If you miss any dose of this medicine, be sure to let your healthcare provider know. They will be able to advise you on when you should come for the next dose.
      • In the event of an overdose, call the attention of your healthcare provider immediately.

    • What are the side-effects?

    • Side-effects of amikacin include:

      • Nausea and vomiting
      • Loose stools
      • Headache and tiredness
      • In some serious cases, you may experience a skin rash, itching,  ache, and tickling feelings in your feet and hands.

    • What to know before taking this medicine?

      • Do not take this medicine for longer than recommended. It can lead to side loss of hearing and kidney problems when too much medication is accumulated in your body.
      • If you have uncontrolled diabetes, inform your healthcare provider before starting this medicine.
      • Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to it or other aminoglycosides. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any rash or hearing problems after starting this medicine.
      • Do not administer this medicine by yourself. Let your health care provider to help with the administering the medicine.
      • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should inform your healthcare provider before using this medicine.