Streptomycin (1gm)

Streptomycin (1gm) — Uses and Benefits

Streptomycin injection is mainly used to treat tuberculosis (TB) as part of combination therapy, and occasionally for other serious bacterial infections.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of tuberculosis (TB) along with other anti-TB drugs
• Treatment of certain serious bacterial infections like plague, tularemia, and some cases of endocarditis
• Used in combination therapy as advised by a specialist doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to the aminoglycoside group of antibiotics
• It stops bacteria from making proteins they need to grow and multiply
• This action kills the bacteria and helps clear the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for viral infections like cold, flu or COVID-19
• Not used as a first-choice antibiotic for minor infections
• Not to be used without medical prescription and monitoring, as it can cause serious side effects if misused

How to Use Streptomycin (1gm)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• This medicine is given as an injection into the muscle, usually by a doctor or nurse
• It should be given exactly as prescribed, at the correct dose and frequency set by your doctor
• Complete the full course, especially if being used for tuberculosis, even if you feel better
• Do not stop the treatment on your own as this can lead to drug resistance

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Since this is usually given at a clinic or hospital, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately if a dose is missed
• Do not try to give yourself an extra dose to make up for a missed one
• Reschedule the missed dose as soon as possible as advised by your doctor

STORAGE

• Store as directed by the pharmacist or hospital, usually in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use if the vial appears discoloured, cloudy or has particles in it
• This medicine is generally stored and handled by healthcare staff, not at home

Streptomycin (1gm) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
• Nausea or vomiting
• Mild dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Numbness or tingling around the mouth
• Headache
• Skin rash or itching

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or loss of balance
• Decreased urination or swelling of feet/face (signs of kidney problems)
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, tongue, or difficulty breathing
• Muscle weakness or difficulty breathing
• Persistent dizziness or unsteadiness while walking

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Streptomycin (1gm) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under the supervision of a qualified doctor, usually in a hospital or clinic setting.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to streptomycin or other aminoglycoside antibiotics
• Have a history of severe hearing loss or balance problems
• Have been advised against it due to kidney disease, unless specifically prescribed with monitoring

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any kidney problems
• Have any hearing or balance issues
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby
• Are breastfeeding
• Are taking other medicines that can affect kidneys or hearing

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other aminoglycoside antibiotics
• Diuretics (water pills) like furosemide
• Muscle relaxants used during surgery
• Other medicines that can affect the kidneys or ears

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can streptomycin be taken as a tablet?

No, streptomycin is given only as an injection, not as a tablet or capsule.

Is streptomycin safe during pregnancy?

It is generally avoided in pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as it may affect the baby's hearing; discuss with your doctor.

How long is streptomycin usually given for TB treatment?

• The duration depends on the treatment regimen decided by your doctor and should not be changed or stopped without medical advice.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.