Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 24, 2026

Induction of Nephrotic Syndrome in Mice by Retrobulbar Injection of Doxorubicin and Prevention of Volume Retention by Sustained Release Aprotinin
Published on: May 6, 2018
Aminoglycoside-induced nephrotoxicity
Kurt A Wargo1, Jonathan D Edwards2
1Division of Internal Medicine, Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy, Huntsville, AL, USA wargoka@auburn.edu.
Abstract:
Aminoglycosides are among the oldest antibiotics available to treat serious infections caused by primarily, Gram-negative bacteria. The most commonly utilized parenteral agents in this class include gentamicin, tobramycin and amikacin. Aminoglycosides are concentration-dependent, bactericidal agents that undergo active transport into the cell where they inhibit protein synthesis on the 30S subunit of the bacterial ribosome. As the use of aminoglycosides became more widespread, the toxic effects of these agents, most notably ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity, became more apparent. When other, safer, antimicrobial agents became available, the use of aminoglycosides sharply declined. The development of multi-drug resistance among bacteria has now lead clinicians to reexamine the role of the aminoglycosides in the treatment of serious infections. This review will revisit the mechanism and risk factors for the development of aminoglycoside-induced nephrotoxicity, as well as strategies to prevent patients from developing nephrotoxicity.
Insights
Aminoglycosides, effective against Gram-negative bacteria, can cause ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. This review examines aminoglycoside-induced nephrotoxicity mechanisms, risks, and prevention strategies amid rising antimicrobial resistance.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Aminoglycosides are critical antibiotics for serious Gram-negative bacterial infections.
- Common agents include gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin, acting as concentration-dependent bactericidal drugs.
- Their use declined due to toxic effects like ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity, but rising antimicrobial resistance prompts reevaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms and risk factors of aminoglycoside-induced nephrotoxicity.
- To discuss strategies for preventing nephrotoxicity in patients receiving aminoglycosides.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on aminoglycoside pharmacology and toxicology.
- Analysis of clinical data regarding nephrotoxicity incidence and risk factors.
- Synthesis of evidence-based prevention strategies.
Main Results:
- Aminoglycosides inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by targeting the 30S ribosomal subunit.
- Nephrotoxicity is a significant dose-dependent adverse effect.
- Risk factors include patient comorbidities, concomitant medications, and specific aminoglycoside agents.
Conclusions:
- Revisiting aminoglycoside use is crucial due to multi-drug resistance.
- Understanding nephrotoxicity mechanisms and risk factors is key for safe clinical application.
- Implementing preventive strategies can mitigate renal damage and optimize patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Inhibitors of Bacterial Protein Synthesis
Drug Accumulation During Multiple Dosing: Intermittent IV Infusions
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Estimation of k and VD of Aminoglycosides
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions

