zoftamic 500mg injection - Amikacin (500mg) medicine

Mikacin 500mg Injection: A Comprehensive Guide

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🏭 Elder Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 21, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for serious gram-negative infections.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 21, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs
  • Ringing in the ears or hearing loss
  • Severe dizziness or balance problems
  • Difficulty breathing or muscle weakness
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling of face or throat)
  • Bloody or severe diarrhea
  • Confusion or seizures

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is zoftamic 500mg injection used for?

This medicine is a strong injectable antibiotic used for serious bacterial infections. It works by stopping bacteria from making proteins. It is given by a healthcare professional and requires monitoring of kidney function and hearing.

  • Generic Name: Amikacin (500mg)
  • Manufacturer: Elder Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 zoftamic 500mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक शक्तिशाली एंटीबायोटिक इंजेक्शन है जिसका उपयोग गंभीर बैक्टीरियल संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह अस्पताल में होने वाले निमोनिया, मूत्र मार्ग के गंभीर संक्रमण, रक्त संक्रमण, पेट के अंदर के संक्रमण, त्वचा और मांसपेशियों के संक्रमण, और कुछ मामलों में मेनिनजाइटिस के लिए दी जाती है। यह दवा बैक्टीरिया के प्रोटीन बनाने की प्रक्रिया को रोककर उन्हें मार देती है। यह केवल डॉक्टर की देखरेख में इंजेक्शन के रूप में दी जाती है और इसे घर पर स्वयं नहीं लगाया जाना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में इंजेक्शन लगाने की जगह पर दर्द, सूजन या लालिमा, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, सिरदर्द और हल्का बुखार शामिल हैं। कुछ रोगियों को चक्कर आना, कान में घंटी बजना या अस्थिरता महसूस हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में किडनी की क्षति, सुनने की क्षमता में कमी, गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी और दस्त शामिल हो सकते हैं। इन्हें तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताना चाहिए।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर या प्रशिक्षित स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इसे स्वयं इंजेक्ट न करें। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी बीमारियों, खासकर किडनी की बीमारी, सुनने की समस्या, मायस्थेनिया ग्रेविस और निर्जलीकरण के बारे में बताएं। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं के बारे में भी बताएं। पर्याप्त पानी पिएं जब तक डॉक्टर कुछ और न कहें। कान में घंटी बजना, सुनने में कमी, चक्कर आना, पेशाब कम आना या सूजन होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं। बेहतर महसूस होने पर भी दवा बंद न करें। नियमित जांच के लिए समय पर जाएं।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 zoftamic 500mg injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Hospital-acquired pneumonia","description":"Used to treat serious lung infections acquired during a hospital stay, especially those caused by gram-negative bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Complicated urinary tract infections","description":"Effective against severe kidney and bladder infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bloodstream infections (sepsis)","description":"Used in combination with other antibiotics to treat life-threatening bloodstream infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Intra-abdominal infections","description":"Prescribed for serious abdominal infections such as peritonitis and abscesses, often with other antibiotics.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Skin and soft tissue infections","description":"Used for severe skin infections, including those caused by gram-negative bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Meningitis","description":"Sometimes used as part of combination therapy for bacterial meningitis when susceptible organisms are involved.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Multidrug-resistant gram-negative infections","description":"Reserved for infections caused by bacteria resistant to many other antibiotics.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection","description":"Occasionally used in combination regimens for MAC in patients who cannot tolerate other agents.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cystic fibrosis exacerbations","description":"Sometimes used in inhaled or intravenous form for Pseudomonas infections in cystic fibrosis, though not a standard first choice.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Serious bacterial infections

Also treats: Hospital-acquired pneumonia, Complicated urinary tract infections, Bloodstream infections, Intra-abdominal infections, Skin and soft tissue infections, Meningitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Amikacin (500mg)
Brand Namezoftamic 500mg injection
ManufacturerElder Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassOPHTHAL
Action ClassAminoglycosides
Route of AdministrationParenteral (intravenous or intramuscular injection)
StorageStore this medicine in its original container at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf LifeThe shelf life is typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the specific product. Check the expiry date on the packaging.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always administer this medicine under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
2
Monitor kidney function and hearing before, during, and after treatment.
3
Ensure the patient is well hydrated to reduce the risk of kidney damage.
4
Avoid combining this medicine with other nephrotoxic or ototoxic drugs unless necessary.
5
Adjust the dose in patients with kidney impairment based on creatinine clearance.
6
Educate patients to report any ringing in the ears, hearing loss, or dizziness immediately.
7
Use the shortest duration of therapy that is effective to minimize toxicity.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Fever with severe infection
This medicine is used for serious bacterial infections that may cause fever.
Likely Use
Common cold
This medicine is not effective against viral infections like the common cold.
Not Primary
Burning urination
It may be used for complicated urinary tract infections.
Likely Use
Headache
This medicine is not a primary treatment for headache.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and must be given by injection. After intramuscular injection, it is rapidly absorbed, with peak blood levels reached in about 30 to 60 minutes. Intravenous administration produces immediate peak levels.
DistributionThis medicine distributes widely into body fluids and tissues, including the extracellular fluid, but it does not penetrate the cerebrospinal fluid well unless the meninges are inflamed. It can cross the placenta and is excreted in breast milk. It tends to accumulate in the kidney cortex and inner ear, which explains its toxicity.
Protein BindingThis medicine is minimally bound to plasma proteins, approximately 0 to 10 percent.
MetabolismThis medicine is not metabolized in the body. It is excreted unchanged.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 2 to 3 hours in adults with normal kidney function. It is significantly prolonged in patients with kidney impairment.
ExcretionThis medicine is excreted almost entirely unchanged by the kidneys through glomerular filtration. About 90 to 95 percent of a dose is recovered in the urine within 24 hours in patients with normal renal function.
BioavailabilityBioavailability is 100 percent when given intravenously. After intramuscular injection, bioavailability is also high, approximately 90 to 100 percent.
Onset of ActionThe onset of antibacterial action is rapid after intravenous administration, usually within 30 to 60 minutes. Clinical improvement may take 24 to 48 hours or longer depending on the infection.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations occur immediately after intravenous infusion and within 30 to 60 minutes after intramuscular injection.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action depends on the dose and kidney function. With normal renal function, effective levels persist for about 8 to 12 hours after a single dose, but the post-antibiotic effect may last longer.

How It Works

This medicine belongs to the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics. It works by binding irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, which interferes with protein synthesis. Specifically, it causes misreading of messenger RNA and blocks the initiation of protein translation, leading to the production of abnormal proteins and disruption of bacterial cell membranes. This results in bacterial cell death. Because it is concentration-dependent, its effectiveness depends on achieving adequate peak concentrations in the blood.

Mechanism Steps

1
Entry into bacterial cell: This medicine enters the bacterial cell through porin channels in the outer membrane and is then actively transported across the cytoplasmic membrane in an energy-dependent process.
2
Binding to 30S ribosomal subunit: Once inside, it binds irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit, specifically to the 16S ribosomal RNA.
3
Interference with protein synthesis: This binding causes misreading of the genetic code and blocks the initiation complex, preventing the bacteria from making essential proteins.
4
Bacterial cell death: The production of faulty proteins and disruption of membrane integrity leads to bacterial cell death.

💡 How to Take zoftamic 500mg injection

Strength: This medicine is available as a 500 mg injection in a vial or ampoule for parenteral administration.

1This medicine is given by a healthcare professional as an intravenous or intramuscular injection.
2Do not attempt to self-administer unless you have been trained and your doctor has approved.
3The injection is usually given in a hospital or clinic setting.
4Follow the prescribed schedule exactly.
5Drink plenty of fluids unless told otherwise.
6Report any side effects immediately.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the type and severity of infection, patient weight, kidney function, and other factors. A common adult dose is 15 mg per kg per day, divided into two or three doses, or a single daily dose of 15 to 20 mg per kg. For serious infections, higher doses may be used. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced kidney function and are at higher risk of toxicity. Doses should be adjusted based on kidney function, and kidney function and hearing should be monitored closely.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with kidney impairment, the dose and dosing interval must be adjusted based on creatinine clearance. A reduced dose or extended interval is often necessary. Therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended to avoid toxicity.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is required for liver impairment, as this medicine is not metabolized by the liver. However, patients with liver disease should be monitored for any worsening of liver function.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is typically 15 to 20 mg per kg per day, but must not exceed 1.5 grams per day in adults with normal kidney function. In patients with kidney impairment, the maximum dose is lower and must be individualized.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of zoftamic 500mg injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Injection site pain (Common (up to 10%))
Apply a cold compress if needed. Report severe pain or swelling to your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take small sips of water and eat bland foods. Tell your doctor if it persists.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult your doctor if it is severe or persistent.
Fever (Uncommon (1-5%))
Monitor your temperature. Inform your doctor if fever rises or lasts.
Rash (Uncommon (1-5%))
Report any rash to your doctor. Seek immediate care if it spreads or is accompanied by swelling.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) (Uncommon (1-10%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice decreased urine output, swelling in legs, or unusual fatigue. Regular blood tests are needed.
Ototoxicity (hearing loss or balance problems) (Uncommon (1-10%))
Report ringing in the ears, muffled hearing, or dizziness immediately. Hearing may be permanently damaged if not addressed.
Neuromuscular blockade (Rare (<1%))
Seek emergency care if you experience muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, or paralysis.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services immediately if you have swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash.
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare (<1%))
Seek medical attention if you develop severe or bloody diarrhea, even weeks after treatment.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Peripheral neuropathy
Report numbness, tingling, or burning in hands or feet to your doctor.
Encephalopathy
Seek immediate care for confusion, seizures, or severe headache.
Optic nerve damage
Report any vision changes or loss of vision immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Other aminoglycosides Major
Loop diuretics Major
Vancomycin Major
Amphotericin B Major
Neuromuscular blocking agents Major
Indomethacin Moderate
Cyclosporine Moderate
Cephalosporins Moderate
Penicillins Minor
Beta-lactam antibiotics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin, tobramycin)
  • Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide, ethacrynic acid)
  • Vancomycin
  • Amphotericin B
  • Neuromuscular blocking agents (e.g., succinylcholine, vecuronium)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Indomethacin
  • Cyclosporine
  • Cephalosporins

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of kidney and liver problems when combined with this medicine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment, especially if you have any kidney or liver issues.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known allergy or hypersensitivity to amikacin or other aminoglycosides","Myasthenia gravis (may worsen muscle weakness)","Severe kidney impairment (unless benefits outweigh risks and doses are adjusted)","Pre-existing hearing loss (may worsen)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine can cause serious kidney and hearing damage. Use with caution in patients with kidney disease or hearing problems.","Avoid concomitant use with other nephrotoxic or ototoxic drugs.","Neuromuscular blockade can occur, especially in patients with neuromuscular disorders or those receiving neuromuscular blocking agents.","Prolonged use may lead to superinfection with resistant organisms.","Do not use in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to aminoglycosides.","Ensure adequate hydration during treatment.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to reduced kidney function.","Monitor kidney function and hearing regularly."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but because of the potential for serious side effects in the infant, consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe kidney damage, hearing loss, and neuromuscular blockade. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and may include hemodialysis to remove the drug from the blood. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Your doctor will advise you on the best course of action based on your dosing schedule.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must only be given by a healthcare professional or a trained caregiver, following the exact dose and schedule prescribed by the doctor. Do not attempt to self-inject unless you have been properly trained and your doctor has confirmed it is safe. Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially kidney disease, hearing problems, myasthenia gravis, or dehydration, and about all other medicines you take, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Drink enough fluids unless your doctor has told you to limit fluids. Report any new ringing in the ears, hearing loss, dizziness, decreased urination, or swelling as soon as possible. Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better, because stopping early can allow the infection to return. Keep all follow-up appointments for blood tests and hearing checks.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of kidney and hearing damage from this medicine. Doses should be adjusted based on kidney function, and monitoring should be more frequent.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, discuss with your doctor before using this medicine. It may harm the developing baby. Effective contraception should be used during treatment.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used to treat or prevent infections after surgery. It is given under medical supervision, and kidney function should be monitored.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine. It may interact with other medications used during dental procedures, and your dentist may need to take precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
🥗
Avoid alcohol during treatment.
😴
Get adequate rest to help your body fight the infection.
💧
Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
🧘
Wash your hands frequently to prevent new infections.
🌞
Attend all follow-up appointments for monitoring.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness or balance problems. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require mental alertness until you know how the medicine affects you.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily unless told otherwise.
Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Include protein-rich foods to support healing.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine in excess.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. You may need to take time off work during treatment, especially if you are hospitalized.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping early can allow the infection to return and may lead to antibiotic resistance. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your response to treatment.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can increase the risk of kidney damage and hearing loss. Regular monitoring of kidney function and hearing is essential. If you notice any changes in urination, hearing, or balance, report them to your doctor immediately. The medicine should be used for the shortest duration necessary.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Other antibiotics

Depending on the bacteria, other antibiotics such as cephalosporins or carbapenems may be used.

Evidence: Well-established
Supportive care

Rest, hydration, and fever control can complement antibiotic therapy.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, ensure you are up to date with recommended vaccines as advised by your doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

If you need to travel while receiving this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining the medical need. Keep the medicine in a cool, dry place, and use a cooler bag if necessary. Check airline and customs regulations for carrying injectable medicines. Plan your doses around travel times, and consult your doctor for any adjustments.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 65-year-old man with hospital-acquired pneumonia
He was started on this medicine intravenously. His fever and breathing improved within three days. His kidney function was monitored daily, and he was encouraged to drink fluids. He completed a 10-day course and recovered fully.
💡 Lesson: Close monitoring of kidney function and hydration are key to safe use of this medicine.
👤 A 40-year-old woman with a complicated urinary tract infection
She received this medicine by intramuscular injection for seven days. She experienced mild pain at the injection site but no serious side effects. Her infection cleared, and she was advised to complete the full course.
💡 Lesson: Completing the full course of antibiotics is essential to prevent recurrence and resistance.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine at home?

A: This medicine is usually given in a hospital or clinic. If your doctor approves home administration, a trained healthcare professional should give the injection.

Q: What should I avoid while taking this medicine?

A: Avoid alcohol and other medicines that can harm your kidneys or hearing. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for zoftamic 500mg injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure any infection.
    Fact: This medicine only works against certain bacteria. It is not effective against viruses or fungi.
  • Myth: You can stop this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning and to avoid resistance.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It can cause serious kidney and hearing problems, so it is used with caution and monitoring.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Amikacin injection (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Mikacin 500mg injection

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Amikacin","class":"Aminoglycoside","route":"Parenteral","common_use":"Serious gram-negative infections","key_side_effect":"Nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity"},{"medicine":"Gentamicin","class":"Aminoglycoside","route":"Parenteral","common_use":"Serious gram-negative infections","key_side_effect":"Nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity"},{"medicine":"Tobramycin","class":"Aminoglycoside","route":"Parenteral","common_use":"Pseudomonas infections","key_side_effect":"Nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity"}]

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