Kanamycin

Kanamycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic introduced in 1957. It is produced by the bacterium Streptomyces kanamyceticus. Kanamycin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

Mechanism of action

Kanamycin works by binding to the 30S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, inhibiting protein synthesis and generating errors in the transcription process. This causes the death of the bacterial cells.

Medical uses

Kanamycin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections such as tuberculosis, sepsis, and urinary tract infections. It is also used in combination with other antibiotics for the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

Side effects

Common side effects of kanamycin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Serious side effects may include kidney problems, hearing loss, and allergic reactions.

Resistance

Bacterial resistance to kanamycin is common and is mediated through several mechanisms, including modification of the antibiotic, modification of the target sites, and efflux of the antibiotic.

See also

• Aminoglycoside
• Antibiotic resistance
• Streptomyces

Kanamycin Resources
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