Amikin
Amikin (amikacin sulfate) is a semi-synthetic aminoglycoside antibiotic derived from kanamycin. It exerts its bactericidal action by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, leading to the misreading of genetic codes and inhibiting protein synthesis. It is highly effective against multidrug-resistant systemic Gram-negative infections, septicemia, neonatal sepsis, bone and joint infections, and central nervous system infections (meningitis) when other less toxic antibiotics are contraindicated or ineffective.
Dosage by Body Weight
Amikin is administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). Standard pediatric and adult dosing is calculated based on body weight. The usual dose is 15 mg/kg/day administered in divided doses every 8 to 12 hours. Dosage must be adjusted carefully in patients with renal impairment. Serum drug concentration monitoring (peak and trough levels) and renal function tests are highly recommended during therapy.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 7.5 mg/kg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 12 to 24 hours depending on gestational/postnatal age
- Tracking Notes
- Use with extreme caution in neonates. Serum level monitoring (TDM) and renal function evaluation are critical to avoid ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 37.5 mg to 52.5 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Every 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure adequate hydration during therapy. Monitor renal function and hearing baseline.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 60 mg to 75 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Dosing interval should be extended if renal clearance is impaired.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 82.5 mg to 112.5 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Dosage should be calculated precisely based on actual body weight. Monitor peak and trough serum levels.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 120 mg to 150 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Adjust dose as necessary based on therapeutic drug monitoring to maintain therapeutic efficacy and limit toxicity.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 7.5 mg/kg per dose | Every 12 to 24 hours depending on gestational/postnatal age | Use with extreme caution in neonates. Serum level monitoring (TDM) and renal function evaluation are critical to avoid ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. |
| 5-7 kg | 37.5 mg to 52.5 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg) | Every 12 hours | Ensure adequate hydration during therapy. Monitor renal function and hearing baseline. |
| 8-10 kg | 60 mg to 75 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Dosing interval should be extended if renal clearance is impaired. |
| 11-15 kg | 82.5 mg to 112.5 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Dosage should be calculated precisely based on actual body weight. Monitor peak and trough serum levels. |
| 16-20 kg | 120 mg to 150 mg per dose (7.5 mg/kg) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Adjust dose as necessary based on therapeutic drug monitoring to maintain therapeutic efficacy and limit toxicity. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used for the treatment of serious, life-threatening infections caused by susceptible strains of Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Proteus species, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Serratia, and Acinetobacter. It is also used in certain severe Gram-positive staphylococcal infections.
Generic Name
Amikacin SulfateScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.