Kanamycin Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 21, 2023.
Applies to kanamycin: oral capsule.
Important warnings
This medicine can cause some serious health issues
Injection route (solution)
Therapy has been associated with potential neurotoxicity, ototoxicity, and nephrotoxicity.
Patients with impaired renal function, advanced age, dehydration, and those who receive high dosage or prolonged therapy are at an increased risk of toxicity.
Monitor renal and auditory function during therapy and discontinue therapy or adjust dose if there is evidence of ototoxicity or nephrotoxicity.
Aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity is usually irreversible.
Serum concentrations of aminoglycosides should be monitored when feasible to assure adequate levels and to avoid potentially toxic levels.
Neuromuscular blockade and respiratory paralysis have also been reported following administration.
Concurrent use of other potentially neurotoxic or nephrotoxic agents, or potent diuretics should be avoided.
Common side effects of kanamycin
Some side effects of kanamycin may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Rare side effects
- Increased amount of gas
- light-colored, frothy, fatty-appearing stools
Serious side effects of kanamycin
Along with its needed effects, kanamycin may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking kanamycin:
Rare side effects
- any loss of hearing
- clumsiness
- dizziness
- greatly decreased frequency of urination or amount of urine
- increased thirst
- ringing or buzzing or a feeling of fullness in the ears
- unsteadiness
For healthcare professionals
Applies to kanamycin: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule.
General adverse events
The major toxic effects associated with kanamycin therapy are ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. It is considered one of the more toxic aminoglycosides.[Ref]
Nervous system
Nervous system side effects have included neuromuscular blockade, ototoxicity resulting in loss of vestibular function secondary to hair cell damage, and irreversible or partially reversible bilateral hearing loss. Nystagmus, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and acute Meniere's syndrome are signs of vestibular dysfunction. Cochlear damage may be asymptomatic and may initially manifest as minor changes in audiometric test results at higher frequencies. Aminoglycosides have been associated with acute muscular paralysis, apnea, peripheral neuropathy and encephalopathy (numbness, paresthesia, muscle twitching, seizures), and myasthenia gravis-like syndrome. Neurotoxicity may occur after intrapleural, intraperitoneal, or parenteral administration. Patients with renal impairment may be at a higher risk.[Ref]
Renal
Renal side effects have included nephrotoxicity, albuminuria, presence of red and white cells and granular casts, azotemia, oliguria, and increased serum creatinine and BUN.[Ref]
Dermatologic
Dermatologic reactions have included skin rash.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal side effects have included nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.[Ref]
Local
Local reactions have included pain at the injection site after intramuscular injection.[Ref]
Metabolic
Metabolic side effects associated with prolonged kanamycin treatment have included malabsorption syndrome manifested as increased fecal fat, decreased serum carotene, and decreased xylose absorption.[Ref]
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References
1. (2004) "Product Information. Kanamycin (kanamycin)." Raway Pharmacal Inc
2. Peloquin CA, Berning SE, Nitta AT, et al. (2004) "Aminoglycoside Toxicity: Daily versus Thrice-Weekly Dosing for Treatment of Mycobacterial Diseases." Clin Infect Dis, 38, p. 1538-44
More about kanamycin
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: aminoglycosides
- Breastfeeding
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Further information
Kanamycin side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.