Capreomycin
Capreomycin is a second-line antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis (TB) when first-line medications are ineffective or contraindicated. It is typically administered as an injectable medication in combination with other anti-tuberculosis drugs. Capreomycin requires careful monitoring due to potential adverse effects on hearing and kidney function.
Capreomycin is an injectable antibiotic used to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis, typically when other first-line treatments have failed.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J04AB30
- RxNorm
- 78903
- Generic
- Capreomycin
- Class
- atc-j04
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Capreomycin is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis when first-line agents (such as isoniazid, rifampin) have failed or cannot be tolerated. It is used as part of combination therapy for multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB).
Capreomycin is a polypeptide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing the formation of functional 70S initiation complexes. This bactericidal action is primarily effective against mycobacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Capreomycin is administered via intramuscular or intravenous injection. Regular monitoring of kidney function (serum creatinine, BUN) and auditory function (audiometry) is essential due to risks of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Electrolytes, particularly potassium, should also be monitored. The medication may cause neuromuscular blockade and should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment, hearing loss, or myasthenia gravis.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy