Amikacin (By injection)
a-mi-KAY-sin
Treats infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called aminoglycoside antibiotics.
Drug classes
Antibiotic (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Amikacin injection is used to treat serious bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. This medicine is for short-term use only (7 to 10 days).
Amikacin belongs to the class of medicines known as aminoglycoside antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, this medicine will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.
Amikacin injection is usually used for serious bacterial infections for which other medicines may not work. However, it may also cause some serious side effects, including damage to your hearing, sense of balance, and kidneys. These side effects may be more likely to occur in elderly patients and newborn infants. You and your doctor should talk about the benefits of this medicine as well as the risks.
This medicine is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
An IM injection is a shot given in your muscle (upper arm, thigh, buttocks). An IV infusion is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins.
This medicine should be given by a person trained to give IV or IM medicine, such as a nurse. Sometimes you, a family member, or friend can be taught to give your medicine.
If you are receiving IV medicine, check the bag to make sure there are no leaks. Also make sure the solution is clear.
If a dose is missed:
This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, and take the rest of the doses for the day at regularly spaced time intervals.
If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor for instructions.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
Store in a refrigerator. Do not freeze. Take it out of the refrigerator an hour before the time for your next dose and allow it to warm to room temperature in a clean, dry place.
If you see particles in the solution, You should not use it.
If you have your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles. Keep it where children or pets cannot reach it.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking a diuretic (water pills) or any other antibiotic medicine.
When Not To Use
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to amikacin or any other aminoglycoside antibiotic such as Garamycin® or Nebcin®.
Warnings
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease or myasthenia gravis.
Call your doctor right away if you notice any change in your hearing. Your doctor may want you to have hearing tests while you are taking amikacin.
If your infection does not improve, or gets worse, while taking this medicine, call your doctor.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Dizziness or trouble standing
Ringing in the ears or trouble hearing
Swelling of the face, throat, or lips
Wheezing or trouble breathing
Urinating less than one cup in a day
Severe diarrhea (watery or bloody)
Swelling, pain, or redness near where your IV needle is placed
Muscle twitching or weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Mild diarrhea
Pain where the IM shot was given
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Amikin, Amikin Pediatric, NovaPlus amikacin sulfate
There may be other brand names for this medicine.