Kacin 500

Indications

Kacin is prescribed for the short-term treatment of severe infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. It is effective against bacterial septicemia (including neonatal sepsis), serious infections in the respiratory tract, bones, joints, central nervous system (e.g., meningitis), skin and soft tissue, intra-abdominal conditions (such as peritonitis), burns, and postoperative infections, including those following vascular surgery. Additionally, clinical studies demonstrate its efficacy in treating complicated and recurrent urinary tract infections caused by these organisms.

Kacin has been shown effective in infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria resistant to gentamicin and tobramycin, including Proteus rettgeri, Providencia stuartii, Serratia marcescens, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

It is also proven effective in treating staphylococcal infections and may be considered a first-line therapy for severe conditions where the infection is suspected to be caused by either Gram-negative bacteria or staphylococcus.
Always use this medication as advised by a licensed physician.

Pharmacology

Amikacin Sulfate, a semi-synthetic aminoglycoside antibiotic, is highly effective against a wide range of pathogens, including Pseudomonas species, Escherichia coli, Proteus species, Providencia species, Klebsiella-Enterobacter species, Acinetobacter species, and Citrobacter freundii. It remains effective even against organisms resistant to other aminoglycosides like gentamicin, tobramycin, and kanamycin.

Amikacin also demonstrates activity against Staphylococcus species, including methicillin-resistant strains, making it a valuable option in infections caused by penicillinase- and nonpenicillinase-producing bacteria.

Dosage Guidelines

• Adults & Children: 15 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (equivalent to 500 mg twice daily for adults). For accurate dosing, the 100 mg formulation is recommended for children.
• Neonates & Premature Infants: Start with a loading dose of 10 mg/kg, followed by 15 mg/kg/day in two divided doses.
• Elderly Patients: Due to renal excretion of Amikacin, assess renal function and adjust dosage accordingly.

Special Cases:

• Life-threatening infections or Pseudomonal infections: Up to 500 mg every 8 hours (not exceeding 1.5 g/day or 10 days of treatment). The total dose should not exceed 15 g.
• Urinary Tract Infections (non-pseudomonal): 7.5 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (equivalent to 250 mg twice daily for adults).
• Renal Impairment: Adjust dosage or increase dosing intervals to prevent drug accumulation.
  Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing recommendations.

Administration

• Intramuscular or Intravenous: While intramuscular administration is preferred, intravenous infusion is an option in life-threatening cases or when intramuscular injections are unsuitable.
• Intraperitoneal Use: Amikacin can be used as an irrigant post-anesthesia at a concentration of 0.25%.
  Administer under the guidance of a licensed healthcare professional.

Drug Interactions

• Combining Kacin with myorelaxants may enhance their effects, potentially causing respiratory distress.
• Avoid concurrent use with other aminoglycosides due to an increased risk of ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
• Combining with fast-acting diuretics can elevate the risk of ototoxicity, especially in patients with renal failure.
• Cephalosporins and Polymyxins can also increase nephrotoxic risks when used alongside Kacin.

Contraindications

Kacin is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to Amikacin or any of its components.

Side Effects

Reported adverse effects include:

• Common: Tinnitus, vertigo, reversible or irreversible hearing loss.
• Others: Skin rash, drug-induced fever, headaches, paraesthesia, nausea, and vomiting.

Use During Pregnancy & Lactation

• Amikacin crosses the placenta and may pose a risk of ototoxicity to the fetus.
• There is insufficient data on its safety during breastfeeding; consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Precautions & Warnings

• Ensure adequate hydration to minimize renal irritation.
• Monitor renal function closely during treatment, especially if azotemia occurs. Discontinue treatment if necessary.

Use in Special Populations

• Pediatric Use: Safety in children under 16 years is not well established.
• Overdose: In case of overdose or toxicity, peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis can help eliminate the drug.

Therapeutic Class

Aminoglycoside Antibiotics

Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.