Paromomycin
Humatin (paromomycin) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat parasitic infections, particularly intestinal amebiasis and other protozoal infections. It is also prescribed for hepatic encephalopathy to reduce ammonia-producing bacteria in the gut. This medication works by inhibiting bacterial and parasitic protein synthesis, preventing growth and replication.
Humatin is an antibiotic used to treat parasitic infections like intestinal amebiasis and to manage hepatic encephalopathy by reducing gut bacteria.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 227565
- Generic
- Humatin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Humatin is primarily used to treat intestinal amebiasis (amoebic dysentery), hepatic amebiasis (amoebic liver abscess), and other parasitic infections caused by susceptible organisms. It is also used off-label for cryptosporidiosis in immunocompromised patients and for reducing ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy.
Humatin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that works by binding to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting protein synthesis. This prevents bacterial and parasitic growth, ultimately leading to cell death. When taken orally, it has minimal systemic absorption, making it particularly effective for gastrointestinal infections.
Common side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Rare but serious side effects include kidney damage and hearing loss with prolonged use. Humatin should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment and is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Always complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy