Overview of Amikacin for Dogs and Cats

Amikacin, commonly known by the brand name Amiglyde-V®, is a semi-synthetic antibiotic derived from kanamycin, a member of the aminoglycoside antibiotic family. This antibiotic acts on susceptible bacteria by inhibiting protein synthesis, resulting in bacterial cell death. Similar drugs include gentamicin, kanamycin and neomycin. It is used in dogs and cats to treat certain serious bacterial infections.

Amikacin is effective against specific bacteria and is not effective against fungi and viruses.

As with other aminoglycosides, amikacin is eliminated by the kidneys and has the potential to cause kidney damage. 

Amikacin is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names of Amikacin

This drug is registered for use in humans and animals.

Human formulations: Amikin® (Apothecon) and various generics

Veterinary formulations: Amiglyde-V® (Fort Dodge)

Uses of Amikacin for Dogs and Cats

Amikacin is used to treat certain serious bacterial infections. It is not for use in routine infections due to potential toxicity.

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, amikacin can cause side effects in some animals.

Amikacin should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Amikacin should be avoided in animals with kidney disease, dehydration and neuromuscular disease.

The drug should also be avoided in animals with fever or sepsis.

Due to potential toxicity, amikacin should be used with extreme caution in very young animals.

Amikacin has been reported to cause irreversible toxicity of the inner ear resulting in deafness. In addition, amikacin has also been reported to cause reversible kidney damage.

Amikacin may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with amikacin. Such drugs include furosemide, amphotericin B and certain antibiotics.

Despite the potential contraindications, amikacin is sometimes the only drug that is effective against certain bacterial infections. In these cases, the drug may have to be given despite potential complications.

How Amikacin is Supplied

Amikacin is available in injection form only. It is available in 50 mg/ml concentration in 50 ml vials. It is also available in 250 mg/ml concentration in 48 ml vials.

Dosing Information of Amikacin for Dogs and Cats

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

If the medication must be given and any of the risk factors are present, use the smallest dose possible.

In dogs, the typical dose is 2.5 to 5 mg per pound (5 to 11 mg/kg) intravenous, intramuscular or subcutaneoulsy 2 to 3 times per day.

In cats, the typical dose is 2.5 to 5 mg per pound (5 to 11 mg/kg) intravenous, intramuscular or subcutaneoulsy 3 times per day.

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.