Did your doctor prescribe Amikacin for a bacterial infection in your lungs? This is a special antibiotic that is inhaled as a mist using a nebulizer. Simply put, it works directly in your lungs. But one thing to remember is that it does not work on viral infections like the common cold or flu. This medicine is only prescribed to kill specific types of bacteria.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important for your doctor to have a complete understanding of your health before prescribing this medication. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor.
- If you have any hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or other hearing disorders.
- If you have any kidney disease.
- If you have another lung or breathing disease, such as asthma.
- If you suffer from nervous system conditions such as Myasthenia Gravis or Parkinson's disease.
- If you have previously had an allergy to Amikacin, other aminoglycoside medications, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- This is definitely something to mention if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding .
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is administered through a machine called a nebulizer. This machine turns the liquid medicine into a small mist (aerosol). You can then breathe the mist into your lungs through your mouth.
Your doctor or hospital will teach you how to use this nebulizer. Follow those instructions exactly.
It is very important to take the prescribed dose exactly as your doctor prescribes. Even if you feel better, take the full course of medication until it is finished. Do not stop taking it for any reason.
Important: When you are prescribed this medicine, you will receive a special information leaflet (MedGuide) about it. Always read it carefully.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than prescribed, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Please note: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with anyone else.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is very close to your next dose (for example, within a few hours), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Other medications you are taking may interact with Amikacin. So tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
| Type of medicine | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Medicines that should never be taken | Cidofovir |
| Painkillers | Aspirin and similar medications, NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen |
| Medicines for other infections | Other antibiotics or antiviral medications such as Acyclovir, Amphotericin B, Gentamicin, Vancomycin |
| Anticancer drugs | Cisplatin |
| Immune-suppressing drugs | Cyclosporine |
| Diuretics | Ex: Furosemide |
| Other | Birth control pills, Pamidronate, Zoledronic acid |
This list is not complete, so it's safest to tell your doctor about everything you're taking.
Possible side effects of the medicine
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
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| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
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Especially if you have watery diarrhea that lasts for more than two days, do not take medication from the pharmacy and call your doctor immediately.
How to store the medicine?
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children . Also, the instructions you are given will tell you the exact temperature and method of storage. Follow those instructions exactly.
Take-Home Message
- Amikacin is an antibiotic that is inhaled through a nebulizer and given to treat certain bacterial infections of the lungs.
- Take the full amount of medication prescribed by the doctor for the full duration. Do not stop taking it just because you feel better.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you take and all medical conditions you have (especially kidney and hearing problems).
- If you experience any serious side effects such as hearing loss, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
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