Kanamycin A

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Kanamycin A

Kanamycin A is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It is derived from the bacterium Streptomyces kanamyceticus. Kanamycin A is particularly effective against Gram-negative bacteria, but it also has activity against some Gram-positive bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Kanamycin A works by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacterial ribosomes. This binding interferes with the process of protein synthesis by causing misreading of mRNA and inhibiting translocation. As a result, the bacteria are unable to produce essential proteins, leading to their death.

Clinical Uses

Kanamycin A is used to treat a variety of infections, including:

• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Septicemia
• Tuberculosis (as a second-line treatment)

Administration and Dosage

Kanamycin A is typically administered via intramuscular injection or intravenous infusion. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's age, weight, and kidney function.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Kanamycin A include:

• Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage)
• Ototoxicity (hearing loss)
• Neuromuscular blockade
• Allergic reactions

Resistance

Bacterial resistance to Kanamycin A can occur through various mechanisms, including:

• Enzymatic modification of the antibiotic
• Alteration of the target site
• Efflux pumps that expel the antibiotic from the bacterial cell

Related Antibiotics

Kanamycin A is part of the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics, which also includes:

• Gentamicin
• Tobramycin
• Amikacin
• Neomycin

See Also

• Aminoglycoside
• Antibiotic resistance
• Streptomyces
• Protein synthesis inhibitors