Kanamycin

Anti-bacterial for Lyme disease vaccine

An anti-infective used for treatment of infections when penicillin or other less toxic drugs can't be used.  Infections treated include bone, repiratory tract, skin, soft-tissue, and abdominal infections, complicated urinary tract infections, endocarditits, speticemia, and enterococcal infections.  Treatment of enterococcal infections requires combination with penicillin.

Side effects: Hearing changes and reactions related to the ears, toxicity to kidneys, hypersensitivity reactions.

Dosage: Kanamycin is inactivated by penicillins when co-adminstered to people with kidney damage.  Dosage is not to exceed 1.5g/day.   Blood levels should be monitored periodically during hterapy.  Monitor kidney functions throughout therapy. 

How long it may take to work: effectiveness is indicated by resolution of signs and symptoms, usually withing 3-5 days. 

Managing side effects: Report to your doctor any signs of hypersensitivity, ringing in the ears, dizziness, or hearing loss.  The most frequent sign of hypersensitivity to a drug is a stable, elevated rash called maculopapular rash (a skin rash that can have bumps).  The reaction typically occurs eight to fourteen days after starting the drug.  Most hypersensitivity reactions to a drug stop after discontinuing treatment.  If the reaction is mild, sometimes you can continue the drug.

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