Major Uses

Amikacin is a semi-synthetic aminoglycoside antibiotic. This drug is used to treat serious infections that are resistant to other commonly used drugs by hindering protein synthesis on the susceptible bacteria.

Common Precautions

Side effects most commonly associated with Amikacin include hearing loss, kidney damage, and vestibular balance disorders. Use of Amikacin should be avoided in very young animals and animals with fever, sepsis, kidney disease, dehydration, or neuromuscular disease. Do not use in animals that have immature heartworms, animals that are pregnant or nursing, or in combination with diuretics or other aminoglycosides.

Amikacin should not be used in animals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug. Emergency veterinary care should be taken if an animal experiences loss of balance, vomiting, increase or decrease in water consumption, lack of appetite, or coma.

Storage

Amikacin should be stored at room temperature and kept in a tightly sealed container that is protected from light.

Administration

Amikacin is supplied only in injection form. It is available in 50 mg/mL concentration in 50 mL vials or in 250 mg/mL concentration in 48 mL vials.

A typical dose range is 15 - 30 mg/kg every 24 hours for dogs, or 10 - 14 mg every 24 hours for cats.

Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.

If a dose is missed, it should be given as soon as remembered. If it is almost time to give the next dose, the regular administration schedule should be resumed and the missed dose should be skipped. Two doses should not be administered at the same time.

Disclaimer
This information is for general reference only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any condition of your pet. It's intended as a general reference, this information may not include all possible uses, precautions, directions, reactions (including allergic), drug interactions, or withdrawal times. Always consult your local veterinarian and have your pet examined for any advice concerning the diagnosis and treatment of your pet, including which products and doses are most appropriate. Any trademarks are the property of their respective owners. VetDepot is not a pharmacy. All prescription products are dispensed by our Pharmacy Partner. Article last updated 2/2014.