Kanamycin
Kanamycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by gram-negative organisms, by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.
Kanamycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic for serious bacterial infections, particularly gram-negative organisms.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A07AA08
- RxNorm
- 6099
- Generic
- Kanamycin
- Class
- atc-a07
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- 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.
Treatment of serious bacterial infections including tuberculosis (as part of combination therapy), septicemia, respiratory tract infections, bone and joint infections, and intra-abdominal infections. May also be used for intestinal decontamination in certain cases.
Kanamycin binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, disrupting protein synthesis and leading to bacterial cell death. It is effective primarily against gram-negative bacteria and some gram-positive organisms.
Administered via intramuscular injection, intravenous infusion, or orally depending on the infection. Known for potential ototoxicity (hearing damage) and nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), requiring monitoring of drug levels, renal function, and hearing. Use requires careful benefit-risk assessment and is typically reserved for serious infections when other options are not suitable.
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 August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy