streptomütsiin

Streptomycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including tuberculosis, plague, brucellosis, leprosy, and infections caused by certain Gram-negative bacteria. It was the first antibiotic to be isolated from a soil bacterium, Streptomyces griseus, by Selman Waksman and Albert Schatz in 1944. Streptomycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, specifically by binding to the 30S subunit of the bacterial ribosome and preventing the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the mRNA.

Streptomycin is typically administered intravenously or intramuscularly, and its dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific infection being treated. It is generally well-tolerated, but like all antibiotics, it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. It is also associated with potential neurotoxicity, particularly in high doses or in patients with impaired renal function.

Streptomycin is considered a first-line treatment for tuberculosis, particularly in patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. However, its use is limited by its potential for inducing resistance and its potential for causing hearing loss in patients with impaired renal function. It is also used off-label to treat certain Gram-negative bacterial infections, such as those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Haemophilus influenzae.

Streptomycin is not effective against viral infections, fungi, or protozoa. It is also not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its safety in these populations has not been established. As with all medications, the use of streptomycin should be guided by a healthcare professional.