Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Amikin, Amikin Pediatric

Generic Name: amikacin (Pronunciation: am E kay sin)

• What is amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• What are the possible side effects of amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• What is the most important information I should know about amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• How should I take amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• What happens if I overdose (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• What should I avoid while taking amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• What other drugs will affect amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?

Amikacin is an antibiotic. It fights bacteria in the body.

Amikacin is used to treat severe or serious bacterial infections.

Amikacin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking amikacin and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; hives; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; rash; or fainting);
• little or no urine;
• decreased hearing or ringing in the ears;
• dizziness, clumsiness, or unsteadiness;
• numbness, skin tingling, muscle twitching, or seizures; or
• severe watery diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take amikacin and talk to your doctor if you experience

• increased thirst;
• loss of appetite;
• nausea or vomiting;
• a rash.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about amikacin (Amikin, Amikin Pediatric)?

If you are injecting amikacin at home, your healthcare provider will give you detailed instructions on how and where to inject the medication. If you do not understand these directions, do not attempt to inject the medication. Contact your healthcare provider for further instructions.

Amikacin may cause damage to the kidneys and/or nerves. Kidney function and drug levels in the blood may be monitored with blood tests during treatment. Tell your doctor if you experience hearing loss, dizziness, numbness, skin tingling, muscle twitching, or seizures which may be signs of nerve damage.