Spectinomycin hydrochloride

Spectinomycin Hydrochloride is an antibiotic medication primarily used in the treatment of gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is also used in veterinary medicine to treat certain types of bacterial infections in animals.

History

Spectinomycin was first isolated in 1961 from the bacterium Streptomyces spectabilis. The hydrochloride salt form was later developed to improve the drug's solubility and stability.

Mechanism of Action

Spectinomycin Hydrochloride works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. It binds to the 30S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, preventing the translocation of the peptidyl-tRNA from the A-site to the P-site. This action disrupts the protein synthesis process, leading to bacterial cell death.

Usage

Spectinomycin Hydrochloride is administered via intramuscular injection. It is often used as an alternative treatment for patients who are allergic to penicillin or for cases where the Neisseria gonorrhoeae strain is resistant to other antibiotics.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Spectinomycin Hydrochloride include nausea, dizziness, and pain at the injection site. Severe side effects, although rare, may include allergic reactions and kidney problems.

Veterinary Use

In veterinary medicine, Spectinomycin Hydrochloride is used to treat bacterial infections in poultry, swine, and calves. It is particularly effective against Escherichia coli and Salmonella infections.

See Also

• Antibiotics
• Gonorrhea
• Protein Synthesis
• Ribosome
• Penicillin