Adults: 15 mg/kg/day IM or IV in 2–3 divided doses
Children: 15 mg/kg/day IM or IV in divided doses every 8–12 hours
Note: Dose adjustment is required in renal impairment. Monitor serum levels to avoid toxicity.
Route of Administration
Intramuscular (IM), Intravenous (IV)
Mechanism of Action
Kanamycin binds irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. It is bactericidal and concentration-dependent.
Common Adverse Effects
Nausea, vomiting
Injection site pain
Rash
Serious Adverse Effects
Ototoxicity (hearing loss, vestibular toxicity)
Nephrotoxicity (acute tubular necrosis)
Neuromuscular blockade (rare)
Anaphylaxis
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to aminoglycosides
Pre-existing auditory or vestibular damage
Precautions
Monitor renal function and serum drug levels regularly
Avoid concurrent nephrotoxic or ototoxic drugs
Use with caution in elderly and patients with renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) – increased risk of ototoxicity
Amphotericin B – increased nephrotoxicity
Other aminoglycosides – additive toxicity
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use only if clearly needed; risk of fetal/neonatal ototoxicity. Avoid in breastfeeding if possible.
Patient Counseling
Report hearing changes, vertigo, or ringing in ears immediately
Report decreased urine output or swelling
Do not skip or double doses
Follow all monitoring schedules for blood levels and renal function