Tobramycin

Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic derived from a complex produced by Streptomyces tenebrarius. The aminoglycosides are the compound containing characteristic amino sugars joined to a hexose nucleus in glycoside linkage. Aminoglycosides are polycations and their polarity accounts for their pharmakokinetic peopertie. Tobramycin is effective against a wide range of aerobic gram negative bacilli and some gram positive bacteria. Tobramycin is used in the treatment of septicemia caused by gram -ve organism, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, CNS infection. Tobramycin is given topically as eye drops to treat Pseudomonas eye infections. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the medication at regular intervel of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Tobramycin is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy, it may result in ineffective treatment.


Adult Dose
Dose: 3 to 5 mg/ kg
Single Dose: 4 (4)
Frequency: As recommended.
Route: IM,Slow IV
Instructions: In 3-4 divided doses.
Neonatal
Dose: 2 to 2.5 mg/kg
Single Dose: 2.2 (2.25)
Frequency: 8 hourly
Route: Intra Muscular
Instructions: -
Paedriatic
Dose: 2 to 2.5 mg/kg
Single Dose: 2.2 (2.25)
Frequency: 8 hourly
Route: Intra Muscular
Instructions: -
Characteristics
Tobramycin Sulphate is the derivative of Tobramycin. It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Aminoglycosides. It belongs to Antibacterial (Proetin synthesis inhibitor) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. The Molecular Weight of Tobramycin is 467.50. Its pKa is 6.7, 8.3, 9.9.
Contraindications
Tobramycin is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Effects
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Tobramycin, which give rise to further complications include Ototoxicity, Elevation in serum creatinine, Neuromuscular blockage.Tobramycin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Nephrotoxicity, Dehydration, Proteinuria, Oliguria, Hyperuricemia. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Tobramycin therapy.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Tobramycin are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Skin reactions, Maculopapular rash, Urticaria, Local pain, Phlebitis.
Indications
'Tobramycin is primarily indicated in conditions like Bacterial infections, Biliary tract infections, Chronic pulmonary pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis patients, Cystic fibrosis, Endocarditis, Eye infections, Gram +ve (some) and gram -ve (many) infections, Heart failure, Iron deficiency anaemia, NSAID-associated ulceration, Oliguria due to renal failure, Pneumonia in hospital patients, Prohylaxis of stress ulceration, Respiratory tract infections, Septicaemia, Supraventricular arrhythmias (particularly atrial fibrillation), Symptoms associated with carcinoid tumours, Trauma, Ulcerative colitis and crohn''s disease, Urinary tract infection, UTI.'
Interactions
Tobramycin is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementAtracurium (Besylate)Coadministartoin results in severe respiratory depression by decreasing the release of acetylcholine at neuromuscular junction by interfering with calcium influx.MajorCoadministration must be avoided. Vital signs should closely monitored and dose adjustment is necessary.Calcium GluconateCarbenicillin (Na)Cefaclor (Monohydrate)coadministration increase nephrotoxicityCefotaximesynergestic effect for pseudomonas aeruginosaCephaloridineCephradineCisplatinEthacrynic AcidFrusemide or FurosemideFrusemide may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Tobramycin. Specifically, nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. ModerateMonitor for toxic effects of Tobramycin if Furosemide is initiated or the dose is increased. This is probably of most concern if Furosemide is administered in high doses for extended periods of time.GentamicinRespiratory paralysis and renal dysfunction risk is increased if this combination is used.MajorThis combination should be avoided.Piperacillin (Na)Polymyxin B (Sulphate)Tubocurarine (Cl) Both are neuromuscular blocking agents so, concomitant use result in severe or prolonged respiratory depression.MajorClosely monitor the vital signs and adjust the dose of drugs accordingly. Ventilatory support should be readily available in case of respiratory arrest.Vancomycin (HCl)Vecuronium (Br)Both are neuromuscular blocking agents so, concomitant use result in severe or prolonged respiratory depression.MajorClosely monitor the vital signs and adjust the dose of drugs accordingly. Ventilatory support should be readily available in case of respiratory arrest. These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Interfrence
Risks
Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, Geriatrics, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.
Storage
Eye Drops, Oint, Inj Store at room temperature or refrigerator. Protect from Sunlight.
Warnings
Tobramycin should be used with caution in patients with history of kidney diseases, vertigo, hearing loss, myasthenia gravis, parkinsonisms. It should be used with caution in patients who are sensitive to aminoglycosides. Perform monthly blood counts test for atleast 4 months. Keep patients well hydrated to prevent chemical irritation or nephrotoxic reactions. Take appropriate measures in case of secondary infections.
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