Amikacin

Definition

Amikacin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections. It works by binding to bacterial ribosomes, inhibiting protein synthesis and leading to cell death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amikacin is particularly effective against Gram-negative bacteria.
2. It is often used when other antibiotics are ineffective due to resistance.
3. Amikacin can cause nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity as side effects.
4. The drug is administered intravenously or intramuscularly for systemic infections.
5. Mechanisms of resistance to amikacin include enzymatic inactivation and alterations in bacterial ribosomal targets.

Review Questions

• What type of bacteria is amikacin most effective against?
• What are the major side effects associated with amikacin use?
• How do bacteria typically develop resistance to amikacin?

Related terms

Aminoglycoside: A class of antibiotics that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis.

Nephrotoxicity: Toxicity in the kidneys, a possible side effect of certain medications including amikacin.

Ribosome:

Cellular structure where proteins are synthesized; target site for aminoglycosides like amikacin.