Neomycin
Pronounced
"nee-oh-MY-sin"
Uses
This medication is used to decrease the risk of infection after certain intestinal surgeries. Neomycin belongs to a class of drugs known as aminoglycoside antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria in the intestines.
Neomycin may also be used along with a special diet to treat a certain serious brain problem (hepatic encephalopathy). This condition is caused by too much of a certain natural substance (ammonia). Normally, the liver gets rid of ammonia, but liver disease can cause too much ammonia to build up in the body. This medication helps treat encephalopathy by killing certain intestinal bacteria that make ammonia.
This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.
Warning
This medication can rarely cause serious kidney problems and nerve damage, resulting in permanent hearing loss (including deafness or decreased hearing) and balance problems. These serious side effects may occur even in people without kidney problems and taking usual doses. Hearing problems may occur long after neomycin has been stopped. The risk is increased if you are older, already have kidney disease, or if you have a severe loss of body water (dehydration). Your risk is also increased if you receive high doses, or with longer use of this medication. Careful monitoring by your doctor (which may include hearing, kidney, and urine tests) will reduce the risk of these side effects. Avoid other medications that may increase your risk for these serious side effects if taken together with neomycin (See also Drug Interactions section). Tell your doctor right away if you notice any signs of these serious side effects, including: ringing/roaring sounds in the ears, hearing loss, dizziness, or an unusual decrease in the amount of your urine.
Severe muscle and breathing problems may also rarely occur.
How to Use This Medication
Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
To decrease the risk of infection after intestinal surgery, take this medication as directed by your doctor, usually for 3 or 4 doses the day before surgery. Carefully follow your doctor's directions for any diet restrictions and using this medication or other products before surgery.
For treating hepatic encephalopathy, take this medication as directed by your doctor, usually four times a day for 5 to 6 days.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To decrease your risk of hearing loss and other side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. The manufacturer recommends that this medication should not be taken for longer than 2 weeks during each treatment period.
If you are taking this medication for hepatic encephalopathy, take it at evenly spaced times for the best effect. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
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