USES: This medication is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of serious bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and infections of the blood, abdomen or bones. This medication must be given by injection since it is poorly absorbed if taken by mouth.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection. It may be injected into a large muscle such as the buttocks or infused into a vein over 30 minutes to one hour. It is usually given two or three times a day for 7 to 10 days. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by using the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night as prescribed. Continue using this for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too soon may result in ineffective treatment.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause nausea, vomiting or weakness as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects continue or become severe, inform your doctor. This medication can cause hearing loss or kidney damage especially if used in high doses or for prolonged periods of time. It is important the proper dose be used. The site where the injection is given may be red and irritated for a few days. Notify your doctor if the irritation continues or becomes worse. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: dizziness, ringing in the ears, hearing loss, skin rash, difficulty breathing, difficult or painful urination, muscle twitching. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.PRECAUTIONS: Before using this, tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, hearing disorders, muscle disorders, allergies (especially to antibiotics). Amikacin is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. Small amounts of this drug have been detected in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any nonprescription or prescription medication you use, especially of: cephalosporins, penicillins, certain diuretics or "water pills" (loop diuretics), neuromuscular blockers (e.g., halothane). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include change in amount of urine, difficulty breathing, dizziness, ringing in the ear, or lightheadedness.
NOTES: Laboratory tests and blood counts will be done routinely while using this to monitor its effects and prevent side effects.
MISSED DOSE: Try to use each dose as scheduled. If you miss a dose, contact your health care provider who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Vials should be stored at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from sunlight. Infusion bags may be refrigerated as directed. Allow the frozen IV bag to thaw and warm to room temperature before using. Allow the refrigerated IV bag to sit at room temperature for one hour before using. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard of any unused medication after that time. Infusion bags can be stored for 24 hours at room temperature, for 60 days at 39 degrees F (4 degrees C) or frozen for 30 days at 5 degrees F (-15 degrees C). These solutions will retain potency for 24 hours at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Do not use if solution is dark in color.
