neomycin Health Article

Generic name(s):

neomycin

Brand name(s):

Mycifradin, Neo-Fradin, Neo-Tab

What is the most important information I should know about neomycin?

Neomycin may cause damage to the kidneys and/or nerves. Kidney function and drug levels in the blood may be monitored with blood tests during treatment. Tell your doctor if you experience decreased urination, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, feeling of fullness in the ears, dizziness, numbness, skin tingling, muscle twitching, or seizures which may be signs of kidney or nerve damage.

What is neomycin?

Neomycin is an antibiotic.

Neomycin is used to reduce the risk of infection during surgery of the bowel. Neomycin is also used to reduce the symptoms of hepatic coma.

Neomycin may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking neomycin?

Do not take neomycin without first talking to your doctor if you have

• kidney disease;

• a blockage in the intestines;

• bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis;

• a neuromuscular disorder such as Parkinson's disease or myasthenia gravis;

• hearing loss or loss of balance due to ear problems; or

• other medical problems or if you take other medications.

You may not be able to take neomycin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Neomycin is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take neomycin without first talking to you doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether neomycin passes into breast milk. Do not take neomycin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take neomycin?

Take neomycin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Take each oral dose with a full glass of water. Shake the liquid form of neomycin well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the suspension with a dose-measuring spoon, dropper, or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

It is important to take neomycin on a regular schedule to get the most benefit.

Take all of the neomycin that has been prescribed for you even if you feel well. It is important to take this medication for the full amount of time prescribed.

Neomycin may cause damage to the kidneys and/or nerves. Kidney function and drug levels in the blood may be monitored with blood tests during treatment. Tell your doctor if you experience decreased urination, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, feeling of fullness in the ears, dizziness, numbness, skin tingling, muscle twitching, or seizures which may be signs of kidney or nerve damage.

Store neomycin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of an neomycin overdose may include decreased hearing, numbness or tingling, muscle twitching, seizures, and decreased urination.

What should I avoid while taking neomycin?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking neomycin unless otherwise directed by your doctor.