Amikacin Sulfate/penicillin G Potassium
General Drug Information and Indications
Compounded combination of amikacin (aminoglycoside) and penicillin G potassium for broad-spectrum treatment of gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial infections in horses; synergistic combination.
Aminoglycoside antibiotic. Mechanism: irreversibly binds 30S ribosomal subunit → mRNA misreading → defective protein synthesis (bactericidal). Broadest-spectrum aminoglycoside; resistant to most bacterial enzymatic inactivation. Concentration-dependent killing; once-daily dosing preferred. Hydrophilic; minimal oral absorption; IV/IM/intrauterine routes used.
Key information
Do NOT mix in same syringe — aminoglycoside/penicillin incompatibility. Administer via separate IV lines or at separate times. Individual component safety profiles apply for each drug.
How to Give this Medication
IV: dilute in 0.9% NaCl or D5W; administer over 30–60 min. IM: inject deep into large muscle mass. Intrauterine (mares): dilute in sterile saline (100–200 mL); infuse using sterile technique. Regional limb perfusion (horses): dilute in sterile saline; apply tourniquet and infuse into target vein. Once-daily dosing preferred. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Nephrotoxicity: acute tubular necrosis — monitor renal function, hydration status. Ototoxicity: irreversible vestibular and cochlear damage. Neuromuscular blockade: apnea risk if given concurrently with anesthetics or muscle relaxants. Pain at injection site (IM).
Precautions
For animals
High nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity risk. Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Ensure adequate hydration. Avoid concurrent nephrotoxic drugs. Once-daily dosing preferred. Monitor urine sediment. Neonates and foals: immature renal function — use caution and monitor closely. Intrauterine use in mares: minimal systemic absorption. Neuromuscular blockade risk — use with caution with anesthetic agents.
For people handling this medication
Injectable — administered by veterinary staff only. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. If accidentally self-injected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Wear gloves when handling. when preparing. Aminoglycoside — avoid skin contact with concentrated solutions.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Amikacin overdose causes acute kidney failure and permanent hearing loss. Aggressive IV fluid support is critical. This is a medical emergency.
Amikacin Sulfate/penicillin G Potassium dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMIKACIN SULFATE/PENICILLIN G POTASSIUM 1 MG/0.724 MG PER ML EXTENDING SOLUTION - 10 ML | 1 MG/0.724 MG PER ML | Solution | 10 ML | Compound |
| AMIKACIN SULFATE/PENICILLIN G POTASSIUM 1 MG/0.724 MG PER ML EXTENDING SOLUTION - 20 ML | 1 MG/0.724 MG PER ML | Solution | 20 ML | Compound |
| AMIKACIN SULFATE/PENICILLIN G POTASSIUM 1 MG/0.724 MG PER ML EXTENDING SOLUTION - 40 ML | 1 MG/0.724 MG PER ML | Solution | 40 ML | Compound |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Aminoglycosides Use in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/antibacterial-agents/aminoglycosides-use-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)