15th March 2024

Aminoglycosides

Aminoglycosides bind to the 30S ribosomal subunit inhibiting protein synthesis. They include gentamicin, amikacin, tobramycin and streptomycin. These drugs have activity against gram-negative bacteria, including pseudomonas and certain gram-positive species. Blood concentration monitoring avoids both excessive and subtherapeutic levels.

The main adverse effects include nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity and acute neuromuscular blockade, particularly in those taking anaesthetic drugs or those with a history of myasthenia gravis.