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Amikacin

Prescription
Aminoglycoside Antibiotic
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Bactericidal; binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit causing mRNA misreading and protein synthesis inhibition. Concentration-dependent killing. Active against many gram-negative bacteria including those resistant to gentamicin.

At a glance

Class
Aminoglycoside Antibiotic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature 15–30°C; stable for 24h at room temperature after dilution

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Once-daily dosing preferred to reduce nephrotoxicity
Dose
15–30 mg/kg
Route
IV, IM, SQ
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Cats are highly susceptible to aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity; use lowest effecti
Dose
10–14 mg/kg
Route
IV, IM, SQ
Frequency
q24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature 15–30°C; stable for 24h at room temperature after dilution

Safety

Monitoring parameters

BUN, creatinine, urinalysis (casts) before and during therapySerum drug levels if availableVestibular signs

Interactions

Major — 1

Furosemide
major
Furosemide increases aminoglycoside nephro- and ototoxicity by concentrating drug in renal tubules and inner ear.
Management: Avoid concurrent use. If unavoidable, maintain hydration, monitor renal function, and monitor for vestibular signs.

Brands

Other markets

Amiglyde-V
Amikin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Amikacin?
Amikacin is a aminoglycoside antibiotic used in pets. Bactericidal; binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit causing mRNA misreading and protein synthesis inhibition. Concentration-dependent killing. Active against many gram-negative bacteria including those resistant to gentamicin.
›What is Amikacin used for in pets?
Amikacin is used in veterinary medicine for: Once-daily dosing preferred to reduce nephrotoxicity; Cats are highly susceptible to aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity; use lowest effecti.
›What is the Amikacin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Amikacin is typically dosed as follows — Once-daily dosing preferred to reduce nephrotoxicity: 15–30 mg/kg IV/IM/SQ q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Amikacin dose for cats?
For cats, Amikacin is typically dosed as follows — Cats are highly susceptible to aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity; use lowest effecti: 10–14 mg/kg IV/IM/SQ q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Amikacin need a prescription?
Yes. Amikacin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Aminoglycoside Antibiotic).

Gentamicin
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Binds irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit, causing misreading of mRNA and bactericidal activity against gram-negative aerobes
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Gentamicin (Systemic)
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Bactericidal; binds 30S ribosomal subunit causing mRNA misreading and protein synthesis inhibition. Concentration-dependent killing with significant post-antibiotic effect. Active against aerobic gram-negative bacteria including Pseudomonas.
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Neomycin
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Bactericidal antibiotic that binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit, causing misreading of mRNA and inhibiting protein synthesis. Poorly absorbed from the GI tract after oral administration.
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Paromomycin
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Aminoglycoside antibiotic poorly absorbed from GI tract, providing luminal antimicrobial activity against intestinal protozoa and bacteria. Binds 30S ribosomal subunit causing protein synthesis errors. Active against Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Entamoeba.
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Tobramycin
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Binds irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis; concentration-dependent bactericidal activity, particularly effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
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