Kanamycin

Products

Kanamycin is marketed in many countries exclusively as a veterinary drug and in combination preparations in the form of a suspension (Kanamastine, Ubrolexin). It has been approved since 1989. In other countries, kanamycin eye drops and ointments are available for human use.

Structure and properties

Kanamycin is present in drugs as kanamycin monosulfate (C18H38N4O15S – H2O, Mr = 600.6 g/mol), an odorless, white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It is a 2-deoxystreptamine derivative composed of 3 cyclic amino sugars formed by the strain. The hydrophilicity is explained by the many free hydroxyl groups, which are also responsible for the stability of the drug in the crystalline form.

Effects

Kanamycin (ATCvet J01GB04, ATC S01AA24) is bactericidal against Gram-negative pathogens (such as . and Salmonella), but also against streptococci and staphylococci (especially ). As with all aminoglycosides, the mechanism of action is based on binding to the 30S subunit of ribosomes, resulting in disruption of bacterial protein synthesis. The effect of kanamycin is concentration dependent. Resistance has been reported.

Indications

In combination with other active ingredients for the treatment of udder inflammation (mastitis) caused by bacteria in cattle and dairy cows. The combination of the individual active ingredients has a synergistic effect on antibiotic activity, broadens the spectrum of activity, and prevents the development of resistance. In humans, eye drops and ointments containing kanamycin are used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis and for ocular disinfection.

Dosage

According to the SmPC. Kanamycin is administered intramammary (into the teats). Before application, the udder is completely milked out and the teat of the infected udder quarter is cleaned and disinfected. The drug is then injected into the infected teat using an injector. Depending on the product, treatment is repeated after 12 or 24 hours.

Contraindications

Kanamycin is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity (including to other aminoglycosides). It should not be administered if resistance has occurred. Since no adverse effects on fertility have been reported to date, kanamycin may be used in pregnant animals. For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

The occurrence of cross-resistance to other aminoglycoside antibiotics is possible if resistance to kanamycin exists.

Adverse effects

To date, no adverse effects have been reported in cattle and lactating dairy cows when used topically. However, kanamycin, like other aminoglycosides, has potent nephrotoxic, ototoxic, and neurotoxic properties when used systemically and is therefore used only topically.