Amikacin Sulphate Injection: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and Precautions

Amikacin sulfate injection is a widely used antibiotic medication that belongs to the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics. It is commonly prescribed to treat serious bacterial infections caused by gram-negative bacteria and some gram-positive bacteria. Available in several concentrations such as 100 mg, 125 mg, 250 mg, and 500 mg, amikacin is typically administered by healthcare professionals via intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection.

This article provides a detailed overview of amikacin sulfate injection, including its medical uses, dosage, precautions, side effects, interactions and important information for patients and caregivers.

What is amikacin sulfate injection?

Amikacin sulfate injection is an antibacterial medication used in the treatment of severe and complicated infections. It is a semi-synthetic derivative of kanamycin, designed to be more effective against resistant strains of bacteria.

It works by binding to the bacterial ribosomes, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis and ultimately killing or halting the growth of bacteria. Unlike oral antibiotics, amikacin is only given via injection, as it is not well absorbed when taken by mouth.

Available Strengths of Amikacin Sulfate Injection

Amikacin Sulfate Injection is available in various dosage strengths to meet the specific needs of the patient:

• Amikacin Sulfate Injection 100 mg
• Amikacin Sulfate Injection 125 mg
• Amikacin Sulfate Injection 250 mg
• Amikacin Sulfate Injection 500 mg

The choice of dosage depends on the type and severity of the infection, the patient’s weight, kidney function, and the doctor’s advice.

Medical Uses of Amikacin Sulfate Injection

Amikacin is used to treat many types of bacterial infections, especially when other antibiotics haven’t worked. Some common conditions include:

 1. Respiratory tract infection

• Pneumonia
• Severe bronchitis
• Lung infections caused by gram-negative bacteria

2. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Complicated urinary infections
• Pyelonephritis (kidney infection)

3. Bone and joint infections

• Osteomyelitis
• Septic arthritis

4. Stomach infection

• Peritonitis
• Abscess inside the abdomen

5. Skin and soft tissue infections

• infected burn wounds
• cell

6. Bloodstream infection (septicemia)

7. Meningitis (brain infection)

8. Post-surgical infections

Amikacin is often used when bacteria are resistant to gentamicin or tobramycin, making it a valuable alternative in hospitals.

Dosage and method of administration

The dosage of amikacin sulfate injection depends on several factors such as:

• Age and weight of the patient
• the type and severity of the infection
• kidney function
• Doctor’s decision

General Dosage Guidelines

• Adults and adolescents:
  15 mg/kg/day (maximum 1.5 g/day), usually divided into 2-3 doses.
• For children:
  15-20 mg/kg/day, divided into 2-3 doses.
• Neonates:
  Initial dose 10 mg/kg, followed by 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hours.
• Elderly patients:
  Dose adjustments may be needed based on renal function.

Amikacin is usually given for 7–10 days, but in severe infections, treatment may be extended under strict medical supervision.

Important: Amikacin sulfate injection should only be administered by a qualified health professional. Patients should not attempt to administer the injection themselves.

How Amikacin Sulfate Works

Amikacin works by blocking protein synthesis in bacteria. Bacteria need protein to grow and multiply. Amikacin binds to the bacteria’s 30 S ribosomal subunit, preventing the production of essential proteins. Without these proteins, bacteria cannot survive, leading to their death.

This makes amikacin a bactericidal antibiotic, meaning it kills bacteria rather than inhibiting their growth.

Benefits of Amikacin Sulphate Injection

•  Effective against a wide range of gram-negative bacteria.
•  Useful in multi-drug resistant infections.
•  It can be combined with other antibiotics for a synergistic effect.
•  Available in several different dosages ( 100 mg, 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg ) to suit the needs of different patients.
• Suitable for use in hospital-acquired infections  where other antibiotics do not work.

Possible side effects

Like all other medicines, amikacin sulfate injection can cause side effects. Most of these are mild and temporary, but some can be serious.

Common side effects:

• pain or redness at the injection site
• Headache
• nausea or vomiting
• Fever

Serious side effects (requiring immediate medical attention):

• Renal toxicity (kidney damage): decreased urine output, swelling, or increased creatinine levels.
• Hearing loss (ototoxicity): ringing in the ears, dizziness or loss of balance.
• Nerve toxicity: tingling, numbness, muscle weakness or seizures.
• Allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.

Regular monitoring of kidney function (serum creatinine) and hearing tests (audiometry) is recommended during long-term treatment.

Precautions and warnings

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Amikacin should be used in pregnancy only if it is absolutely necessary.
• It may pass into breast milk in small amounts, so caution is advised during breastfeeding.

2. Kidney patients

• Dosage adjustments are needed in people with kidney problems.

3. Elderly patients

• There is a higher risk of side effects, especially hearing loss and kidney damage.

4. Drug interactions:
Amikacin may interact with the following drugs:

• Other aminoglycosides (gentamicin, tobramycin)
• Diuretic medications (furosemide, mannitol)
• Cephalosporins and vancomycin (increase kidney risk)
• Muscle relaxants and sedatives

Storage and maintenance          

• Store below 25°C .
• Protect from light and moisture.
• do not freeze.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Use it only when the solution is clear and free of particles.

Why do doctors prescribe amikacin sulfate injections?

• When infections become resistant to other antibiotics.
• In life-threatening infections where rapid bactericidal action is required.
• For hospital-acquired infections where multidrug-resistant organisms are common.
• As part of a combination therapy in severe conditions such as sepsis or meningitis.

Also read this post :- Deca-Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate) Injection

Conclusion

Amikacin Sulfate Injection (100 mg, 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg) is a powerful antibiotic used to treat serious and life-threatening bacterial infections, especially when other antibiotics have not been effective. Although it provides excellent antibacterial protection, it should be used with caution due to potential side effects on the kidneys and hearing.

NOTE:- Do Not Take Any Medicine Without Consulting A Doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)