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Drug interactions

Neomycin + Streptomycin

Severity: Major

Neomycin and Streptomycin: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Both are aminoglycosides with nephrotoxic, ototoxic and neuromuscular blocking potential. Although oral neomycin is poorly absorbed, systemic exposure can rise with renal impairment or bowel disease, and the combination with injected streptomycin can add to toxicity.

What this interaction means in plain words

Neomycin and Streptomycin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Neomycin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Streptomycin belongs to Anti Bacterial.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity and neuromuscular blockade.

What to do

Avoid concurrent use where possible. If necessary, monitor renal function, streptomycin levels, and hearing and vestibular function.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Neomycin with Streptomycin?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Neomycin and Streptomycin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Both are aminoglycosides with nephrotoxic, ototoxic and neuromuscular blocking potential. Although oral neomycin is poorly absorbed, systemic exposure can rise with renal impairment or bowel disease, and the combination with injected streptomycin can add to toxicity.

How serious is the interaction between Neomycin and Streptomycin?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concurrent use where possible. If necessary, monitor renal function, streptomycin levels, and hearing and vestibular function.

What other medicines interact with Neomycin?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Neomycin with, for example, Amikacin, Amphotericin b deoxycholate, Capreomycin. The full list is on the Neomycin page.

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