Paromomycin

Definition

Paromomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat certain protozoan infections. It is particularly effective against intestinal amoebiasis and other gastrointestinal protozoal infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Paromomycin works by inhibiting protein synthesis in susceptible organisms, leading to their death.
2. It is primarily administered orally and remains largely within the gastrointestinal tract, minimizing systemic absorption.
3. Paromomycin is often used as a treatment for Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of amoebic dysentery.
4. The drug can also be employed as part of combination therapy for leishmaniasis, another protozoan infection.
5. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Review Questions

• What mechanism does Paromomycin use to exert its antimicrobial effects?
• For which specific protozoan infections is Paromomycin commonly prescribed?
• What are some common side effects associated with Paromomycin?

Related terms

Amoebiasis:

An infection caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica, often resulting in severe diarrhea.

Leishmaniasis:

A disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, affecting skin and internal organs.

Aminoglycoside antibiotics: A class of antibiotics that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis and are effective against various types of bacteria.