Paromomycin

An aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat various infections

Chemical structure of Paromomycin

Paromomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that is primarily used to treat certain types of parasitic infections. It is derived from the bacterium Streptomyces rimosus and is effective against a variety of protozoa and some bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Paromomycin works by binding to the 16S rRNA of the 30S ribosomal subunit in bacteria, which interferes with the protein synthesis process. This binding causes the ribosome to misread the mRNA, leading to the production of faulty proteins and ultimately resulting in the death of the bacterial cell. In protozoa, the exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to disrupt protein synthesis in a similar manner.

Uses

Paromomycin is used to treat a variety of infections, including:

• Amoebiasis: It is effective against Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of amoebic dysentery.
• Leishmaniasis: Paromomycin is used in the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar.
• Cryptosporidiosis: It is sometimes used to treat infections caused by Cryptosporidium species, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
• Giardiasis: Paromomycin can be used to treat infections caused by Giardia lamblia.

Administration

Paromomycin is typically administered orally in the form of capsules or tablets. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the infection being treated. For certain infections, such as visceral leishmaniasis, paromomycin may be administered intramuscularly.

Side Effects

Common side effects of paromomycin include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, it may cause ototoxicity, which can lead to hearing loss. Nephrotoxicity is another potential side effect, although it is less common.

Precautions

Paromomycin should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or hearing disorders. It is important to monitor kidney function and hearing during treatment, especially in patients receiving high doses or prolonged therapy.

Related Pages

• Aminoglycoside
• Antibiotic
• Leishmaniasis
• Amoebiasis