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

Amikacin Sulphate Injection is a widely used antibiotic medication that belongs to the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of severe bacterial infections caused by gram-negative bacteria and some gram-positive bacteria. Available in multiple strengths such as 100mg, 125mg, 250mg, and 500mg, Amikacin is usually administered by healthcare professionals through intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection

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

What is Amikacin Sulphate Injection?

Amikacin Sulphate Injection is an antibacterial medicine used for 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 ribosome, which inhibits protein synthesis, ultimately killing the bacteria or stopping its growth. Unlike oral antibiotics, Amikacin is given through injections only, as it is not absorbed well when taken by mouth.

Available Strengths of Amikacin Sulphate Injection

Amikacin Sulphate Injection is available in different dosage strengths to meet patient-specific needs:

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

The choice of strength depends on the type and severity of infection, patient’s weight, kidney function, and doctor’s recommendation

Medical Uses of Amikacin Sulphate Injection

Amikacin is prescribed for the treatment of a wide variety of bacterial infections, especially when other antibiotics fail to work. Some of the common conditions include:

 1 Respiratory Tract Infections

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

2 Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

• Complicated UTIs
• Pyelonephritis (kidney infection)

3 Bone and Joint Infections

• Osteomyelitis
• Septic arthritis

4 Abdominal Infections

• Peritonitis
• Intra-abdominal abscess

5 Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

• Infected burns and wounds
• Cellulitis

6 Bloodstream Infections (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 choice in hospitals.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Amikacin Sulphate Injection depends on factors like:

• Patient’s age and weight
• Type and severity of infection
• Kidney function
• Doctor’s judgment

General Dosage Guidelines

• Adults and Adolescents:
  15 mg/kg/day (maximum 1.5 g/day), usually divided into 2–3 doses.
• Children:
  15–20 mg/kg/day divided into 2–3 doses.
• Neonates (newborns):
  Initial dose of 10 mg/kg followed by 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hours.
• Elderly Patients:
  Dose adjustment may be required depending on kidney function.

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

 Important: Only a qualified healthcare professional should administer Amikacin Sulphate Injection. Patients should not attempt self-injection.

How Amikacin Sulphate Works

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

This makes Amikacin a bactericidal antibiotic, meaning it kills bacteria rather than just stopping their growth.

Benefits of Amikacin Sulphate Injection

• Effective against a wide range of gram-negative bacteria.
• Useful in multi-drug resistant infections.
• Can be combined with other antibiotics for synergistic effects.
• Available in multiple strengths (100mg, 125mg, 250mg, 500mg) to suit different patient needs.
• Suitable for use in hospital-acquired infections where other antibiotics fail.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Amikacin Sulphate Injection may cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some can be serious.

Common Side Effects:

• Pain or redness at injection site
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever

Serious Side Effects (Require Immediate Medical Attention):

• Nephrotoxicity (Kidney Damage): Reduced urine output, swelling, or elevated creatinine.
• Ototoxicity (Hearing Loss): Ringing in the ears, dizziness, or loss of balance.
• Neurotoxicity: Tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or seizures.
• Allergic reactions: 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 absolutely necessary.
• It may pass into breast milk in small amounts, so caution is advised during breastfeeding.

2 Kidney Patients

• Dose adjustments are needed in people with kidney problems

3 Elderly Patients

• Higher risk of side effects, especially hearing loss and kidney damage.

4 Drug Interactions
Amikacin may interact with:

• Other aminoglycosides (gentamicin, tobramycin)
• Diuretics (furosemide, mannitol)
• Cephalosporins and vancomycin (increase kidney risk)
• Muscle relaxants and anesthetics

Storage and Handling          

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

Why Doctors Prescribe Amikacin Sulphate Injection

• When infections are resistant to other antibiotics.
• In life-threatening infections where quick bactericidal action is needed.
• For hospital-acquired infections where multidrug-resistant organisms are common.
• As part of combination therapy in serious conditions like sepsis or meningitis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Amikacin Sulphate Injection safe?
Yes, when given under medical supervision, it is safe. However, monitoring is necessary to avoid kidney and ear-related side effects.

2. Can I take Amikacin Injection at home?
No. It must be administered by a trained healthcare professional.

3. How long does Amikacin take to work?
Patients often notice improvement within 2–3 days, but full course completion is important to avoid resistance.

4. Can Amikacin be given with other antibiotics?
Yes. It is often combined with beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., cephalosporins, penicillins) for better effectiveness.

5. Is it safe for children?
Yes, but dosage must be carefully calculated according to body weight.

Conclusion

Amikacin Sulphate Injection (100mg, 125mg, 250mg, 500mg) is a powerful antibiotic used to treat severe and life-threatening bacterial infections, especially when other antibiotics are not effective. While it offers excellent antibacterial coverage, it must be used with caution due to potential side effects on kidneys and hearing.