streptomycin

Last reviewed 01/2018

Streptomycin is an antibiotic derived from Streptomyces griseus.

Indications:

  • tuberculosis, where drug resistance is suspected

Cautions:

  • increase dose interval in renal impairment. If the impairment is severe the dose itself should also be reduced
  • beware drug interactions (see current issue BNF)

Contra-indications:

  • pregnancy
  • myasthenia Gravis - aminoglycosides may impair neuromuscular transmission; indeed large doses given during surgery may be responsible for a transient myasthenic syndrome

Side-effects include:

  • vestibular damage
  • reversible nephrotoxicity

NB. Both vestibular and renal toxicity are dose related and occur most often in the elderly and in those with renal impairment.

  • hypomagnesaemia in prolonged therapy
  • pseudomembranous colitis
  • hypersensitivity reactions
  • paraesthesia of the mouth

Route of administration:

  • i.m. injection

The summary of product characteristics should be consulted before prescribing this drug.