Should aminoglycoside antibiotics be abandoned?

Aminoglycoside-induced hearing deficits – a review of cochlear ototoxicity

“…65 Due to the epidemic of MDR-TB in South Africa, it might not be possible to remove aminoglycosides from the treatment regimen in the near future. However, it is important that awareness be created about the devastating effect of aminoglycosides on an individual's hearing, and thus their ability to communicate effectively.…”

Acute kidney injury – improving outcomes with early risk assessment and intervention

“…Some authors have called for elimination of amino glycosides from the standard antimicrobial agents for and use only for directed treatment of a number of severe gram positive and negative bacterial infections 47 . Older patients with pre existing renal dysfunction, septic patients with intravascular volume depletion may be at greater risk of aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity.…”

Section 3: Prevention and Treatment of AKI

“…271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276 The intrinsic risk of AKI with the administration of aminoglycosides has led some authors to call for elimination of aminoglycosides as a therapeutic option in current clinical management of infectious diseases. 277 The anticipated demise of aminoglycosides from our therapeutic armamentarium has not occurred, however, in light of recent developments with progressive antimicrobial resistance to beta-lactams, quinolones, and a number of other classes of antimicrobial agents.…”

“…The intrinsic risk of AKI with the administration of aminoglycosides has led some authors to recommend the elimination of aminoglycosides as a clinical treatment option. 277 Certainly their use should be restricted to treat severe infections where aminoglycosides are the best, or only, therapeutic option.…”