Amikacin is an antibiotic. It is used together with other medicines to treat a lung infection caused by Mycobacterium avium Complex (MAC) in patients with limited treatment options.
Use Amikacin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as an inhalation solution, to be used with a specific nebulising machine.
Make sure you know how to use the specific machine you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.
You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
Skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use Amikacin if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or similar medicines such as gentamicin.
Do not use Amikacin with other aminoglycoside antibiotics given via other routes, such as gentamicin, tobramycin, streptomycin.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- hearing problems e.g. ringing in the ears, hearing loss, balance problems
- dizziness with sensations of spinning
- other lung diseases
- neuromuscular disease e.g. myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
- kidney disease
It is important that you do not get pregnant while being treated with this medicine. You may wish to discuss birth control methods with your doctor or pharmacist.
Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding.
Some genetic traits can affect an individual's response to Amikacin. Individuals who have the m.
1555A>G mutation may have an increased risk of hearing loss from this medicine. Although not routinely done, your doctor may advise you to take genetic testing to check if it is best suited for you.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine tests (e.g. kidney function) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring of ear function and sense of hearing may also be needed.
Amikacin may cause any of the following side effects: cough, throat irritation, headache, loss or hoarseness of voice, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, muscle or joint pain, and fatigue.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth
- hearing loss or ringing in the ears
- fever, worsening of breathing or wheezing, throat pain, increased phlegm production
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not use Amikacin with other aminoglycoside antibiotics given via other routes, such as gentamicin, tobramycin, streptomycin.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking medicines for water retention or water pills e.g. furosemide.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator between 2-8°C, away from the reach of children. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used.
Amikacin may be stored at room temperature not exceeding 25°C for up to 4 weeks.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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