Indications
Dihydrostreptomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used today mainly in animals. It is found in veterinary injections, usually combined with Procaine Penicillin G and Benzathine Penicillin G, to treat bacterial infections in cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep, pigs and other livestock, such as pneumonia, mastitis, foot rot, wound infections and some infections of the uterus. It is not used to treat people any more because it can cause serious hearing loss. Veterinary products are not for human use.
How It Works
Dihydrostreptomycin enters bacteria and binds to their ribosomes, the parts of the cell that make proteins. This causes faulty proteins to be made and kills the bacteria. It works mainly against Gram-negative bacteria and some Gram-positive bacteria, and combining it with penicillin widens the range of bacteria covered.
Dosage and Administration
For animal use only. It is given by intramuscular injection by a veterinarian or a trained person, at the dose per kg body weight and for the number of days shown on the product label or advised by the veterinarian. Do not exceed the stated dose or the recommended course length, and do not inject into a vein.
Interactions
- Avoid use with other medicines that can harm the kidneys or ears, such as other aminoglycosides (Gentamicin, Neomycin), Polymyxins or strong diuretics like Furosemide.
- It can increase the effect of muscle relaxants and anaesthetics, which may weaken breathing.
- Do not mix with other medicines in the same syringe unless the label allows it.
Contraindications
- Animals with known allergy to aminoglycosides or penicillins (for combination products).
- Animals with serious kidney disease, hearing or balance problems.
- Small rodents such as guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits, where combination penicillin products can be fatal.
- Not for human use.
Side Effects
In animals, pain or swelling at the injection site, allergic reactions, and with long or high-dose treatment, damage to the kidneys, hearing and balance can occur. In people handling the product, skin contact may cause allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals.
If a treated animal collapses, has difficulty breathing or develops facial swelling, contact a veterinarian urgently. If a person accidentally injects themselves or develops swelling of the face, lips or eyes, or difficulty breathing after contact, get urgent medical help and show the label.
Pregnancy and Lactation
In pregnant animals, aminoglycosides can harm the hearing and kidneys of the unborn young; use only if the veterinarian decides it is needed. In lactating animals, milk must not be used for human consumption during treatment and for the withdrawal period shown on the label. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid handling the product where possible and wear gloves.
Precautions and Warnings
- Withdrawal periods: meat and milk from treated animals must not be used for food until the withdrawal period stated on the label has passed, so that drug residues do not reach people.
- Use only when needed and as directed, to limit antibiotic resistance.
- Wear gloves when handling; wash hands after use.
- People with known allergy to penicillins or aminoglycosides should avoid contact with the product.
Overdose
Overdose in animals can cause kidney damage, hearing loss, loss of balance and breathing weakness. Contact a veterinarian at once. Accidental injection in a person needs prompt medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary antibiotic, aminoglycoside.
Storage
Store as directed on the pack, usually 2 to 8°C (do not freeze), away from light and out of the reach of children. Shake well before use and keep away from food and animal feed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.