framycetin

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Actions: 

framycetin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It specifically targets the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, interfering with the reading of the genetic code and preventing the production of essential proteins. This ultimately leads to the inhibition of bacterial growth and the eventual death of the bacteria.  

Spectrum: 

framycetin has activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is particularly effective against aerobic Gram-negative organisms. Some examples of bacteria that framycetin can target include Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus species, Enterobacter species, and some strains of Staphylococcus aureus. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Cardiac Arrhythmia 

Palpitations 

Tachycardia 

Insomnia 

Headache 

Drowsiness 

Nervousness 

Blurred vision 

Burn 

Sneezing 

Rhinorrhea 

Stinging in nose 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications: 

• Hypersensitivity 

Cautions: 

• Renal impairment 
• Pre-existing hearing/balance disorders 
• Concurrent use of other medications 
• Pregnancy 
• Breastfeeding 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

No data is available for usage during pregnancy. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

No data is available regarding the secretion of the drug in breast milk. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show fetal risks in the first or later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: No data for the drug under this category is available. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

framycetin binds to the 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes, specifically to the 16S rRNA. This binding inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by interfering with the reading of the genetic code, producing non-functional or incomplete proteins. This ultimately leads to the inhibition of bacterial growth and eventual cell death. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

framycetin may exhibit synergistic effects when used in combination with other antibiotics. It can enhance the activity of certain beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins, by increasing their penetration into bacterial cells. The combination of framycetin with other antibiotics can improve treatment outcomes, especially in the case of mixed bacterial infections or when dealing with bacteria that have developed resistance to a single antibiotic. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When framycetin is applied topically, such as in creams, ointments, or eye and ear drops, it primarily acts locally at the application site. Systemic absorption of framycetin through intact skin is minimal. However, some systemic absorption can occur if applied to large areas of broken or damaged skin or if used for prolonged periods.  

Distribution 

After systemic absorption, framycetin distributes mainly in extracellular fluids. It has limited penetration into deeper tissues and does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier. The drug’s distribution within the body is influenced by factors such as plasma protein binding and tissue perfusion. 

Metabolism 

framycetin is not significantly metabolized in the body. It primarily remains in its active form. The drug undergoes minimal biotransformation by metabolic enzymes.  

Elimination and Excretion 

framycetin is primarily eliminated unchanged from the body, primarily through renal excretion. The drug is filtered by the glomeruli in the kidneys and actively secreted into the urine by tubular cells. Renal function plays a crucial role in framycetin elimination, and impaired renal function can lead to drug accumulation and potential toxicity.

Adminstartion

Administration: 

framycetin is commonly used as a topical antibiotic and is available in creams, ointments, and eye or ear drops. The topical formulations, such as skin wounds, burns, cuts, or infected dermatitis, are applied directly to the affected area. Following the healthcare professional’s instructions or the product label for proper application techniques and frequency is essential. 

In some cases, framycetin may be administered orally. However, oral formulations of framycetin are less commonly available than topical preparations. Oral framycetin may be used in certain gastrointestinal infections, although it is generally reserved for specific indications due to the risk of systemic toxicity and the availability of alternative antibiotics. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name:  framycetin 

Pronounced as: fray-mye-SEE-tin 

Why do we use framycetin? 

framycetin (neomycin B) is used for its antibacterial properties and primarily in treating and preventing bacterial infections. It is commonly used topically to treat or prevent skin infections, wounds, burns, cuts, infected dermatitis, and bacterial infections of the eyes or ears. framycetin can also be used with other antibiotics to enhance their effectiveness against certain bacterial infections.