Aminoglycosides Flashcards
1
Q
Give some examples
A
Gentamicin
Amikacin
2
Q
What are the indications for use
A
- Sev Sepsis (inc source)
- Endocarditis
- Pyelonephritis & complicated UTIs
- Biliary & intra-abdominal sepsis
3
Q
What is the mechanism of action
A
- Bacteriacidal
- Bind irreversibly to bacterial ribosomes (30s) & inhibit protein synthesis
- Gram -ve aerobic bacteria
- Enter bacteria via O2-dependant transport system
4
Q
Why is it combined with penicillin or metronidazole
A
Lack activity against strep + anaerobes
- so combine when unknown organism
5
Q
What are the side effects
A
Nephrotoxicity (Apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells)
- ->Reduced urine output
- -> Reduced serum creatinine/ urea
Ototoxicity (Apoptosis of cochlear & vestibular hair cells)
- -> tinnitus
- -> vertigo
- -> hearing loss
6
Q
What are the contra-indications
A
- Myasthenia Gravis
- monitoring in neonates/ elderly
- reduced renal function
7
Q
What are the interactions
A
- Ototoxicity more likely if co-prescribed with LOOP DIURETICS/VANCOMYCIN,
- Nephrotoxicity more likely if co-prescribed with CICLOSPORIN/CHEMO, VANCOMYCIN, CEPHALOSPORINS
8
Q
Why can’t it be given orally
A
Don’t cross lipid membranes
