Paromomycin
Paromomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used primarily to treat intestinal parasitic infections, particularly amebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica. It is often employed for treating intestinal infections.
Paromomycin is an oral aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat intestinal amebiasis and other parasitic infections.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A07AA06
- RxNorm
- 7934
- Generic
- Paromomycin
- Class
- atc-a07
- Brands
- Humatin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet
- 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.
Paromomycin is used to treat intestinal amebiasis (infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica), including asymptomatic cyst passers, as well as other parasitic infections such as giardiasis. It is also sometimes used as part of combination therapy for hepatic amebiasis.
Paromomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible organisms, disrupting protein synthesis and leading to bacterial death. When taken orally, it is poorly absorbed, allowing it to act directly in the intestinal lumen.
Paromomycin is typically administered orally and is poorly absorbed, concentrating its effects in the gastrointestinal tract. Common side effects may include GI disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. It should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment and is generally avoided in cases of known intestinal obstruction. As with all antibiotics, it should only be used when clinically indicated to reduce the risk of resistance development.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy