Amikacin: View Uses, Side Effects and Medicines

Your doctor has prescribed Amikacin to cure your infection and improve your symptoms.
Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection come back and harder to treat.
It is given as a drip (intravenous infusion) or as an injection directly into a vein or a muscle.
Your doctor may get regular blood, urine, or hearing tests while you are on this medication.
Your doctor will ensure that you are well hydrated before and during treatment with this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
Discontinue Amikacin and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.

Frequently asked questions for Amikacin

Q. For how long can Amikacin be taken?

The usual course of treatment with Amikacin is about 7 to 10 days. However, your doctor will decide your dose depending on the condition you are being treated for. Continue taking Amikacin in the dose and duration prescribed by the doctor to get maximum benefit. Do not alter the dose of the medicine on your own, consult your doctor first.

Q. Is Amikacin safe?

Amikacin is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.

Q. How is Amikacin administered?

Amikacin should be administered under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional or a doctor only and should not be self-administered. The dose will depend on the condition you are being treated for and will be decided by your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get the maximum benefit from Amikacin.

Q. Can I take a higher than the recommended dose of this medicine?

No, Amikacin should be taken in the recommended dose only. Overdose of Amikacin can increase the risks of side effects. If you experience an increase in the severity of your symptoms during the treatment, please consult your doctor for re-evaluation.

Q. What are the instructions for the storage and disposal of Amikacin?

Keep this medicine in the container or the pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it according to the instructions mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children, and other people.

Q. What if I don't get better after using Amikacin?

Inform your doctor if you don't feel better after finishing the full course of treatment. Also, consult your doctor if your symptoms are getting worse while using this medicine. The doctor may modify the dose or suggest an alternative medicine.

Q. Can I stop taking Amikacin when I feel better?

No, do not stop taking Amikacin and complete the full course of treatment even if you are feeling better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cured.

Q. Can I take alcohol while on Amikacin?

You should avoid alcohol while being on treatment with Amikacin. Alcohol consumption may worsen the dizziness and sleepiness that might be caused by Amikacin. However, if you do have alcohol and experience any side effects, consult your doctor.