About streptomycin
Aminoglycoside antibiotic
Used for
- Tuberculosis, as part of combination treatment
- Plague
- Tularemia
- Certain serious bacterial infections when other treatments are unsuitable
Usual adult dose
Varies by infection and weight; tuberculosis commonly uses 15 mg/kg intramuscularly once daily, maximum 1 g.
Usual dose in children
Specialist-directed; tuberculosis commonly uses 15–20 mg/kg intramuscularly once daily, maximum 1 g.
Common side effects
- Hearing loss or balance problems
- Kidney injury
- Injection-site pain
- Numbness or tingling
Important warnings
- Can cause serious, sometimes permanent, hearing damage.
- Kidney function and hearing need monitoring during treatment.
- Avoid or use cautiously with kidney disease or neuromuscular disorders.
- Use only under medical supervision; resistance develops with inappropriate use.
Pregnancy
May harm fetal hearing; generally avoided during pregnancy unless essential.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter milk; infant absorption is expected to be low, but clinical guidance is recommended.
Interactions
- Other medicines that damage hearing or kidneys may increase toxicity.
- Neuromuscular blockers and some anesthetics may worsen muscle weakness or breathing problems.
- Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, may increase hearing damage risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.