by Melody St. John

Created on: November 27, 2011   Last Updated: November 28, 2011

Capreomycin is a type of antibiotic drug that is used to treat tuberculosis (TB), a respiratory disease caused by a bacterial species called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. As an antibiotic, capreomycin which is marketed as Capastat sulphate, is often used in the treatment of TB after other antituberculosis medications have not been effective in treating the infection.

Capreomycin is usually used along with other medications to treat tuberculosis. Since antibiotics are only used to fight bacterial infections, Capreomycin should not be used to treat viral infections. This drug may also be used for other purposes not listed here.

As a prescription drug, Capreomycin should only be used with a doctor’s recommendation. It is given as an injection at a medical facility. The drug may also be administered at home by a healthcare provider or you may try to do it yourself as long as you follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. If you’re prescribed Capreomycin, you should complete the full course of therapy. If not, your infection may not totally clear up.

Capreomycin should only be used in adults, as the drug’s safety and efficacy in children have not been validated. It must be used with caution in the elderly as they may have a higher sensitivity to its effects. It must also be used with extreme caution in people who suffer from hearing or kidney problems. If you get pregnant while using Capreomycin, you need to inform your doctor right away and discuss the risks and benefits associated with the use of the drug. 

Since all drugs may cause side effects, you need to be aware that Capreomycin may also come with several side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects from this drug; or may only suffer from minor ones.

The most common side effects of Capreomycin include pain, swelling, redness or skin hardening at the injection site. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, you should consult your doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

As with other antibiotics, Capreomycin may also cause serious side effects. It is imperative to seek medical help immediately if you experience severe allergic reactions to this drug (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tight feeling in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue). Other serious side effects associated with Capreomycin include decreased hearing or loss of hearing; decreased urination (oliguria) or other urination problems; fever, chills, or sore throat; ringing in the ears (tinnitus); feeling dizzy; severe or easy bleeding/bruising at the injection site; signs of electrolyte imbalance, such as confusion, irregular heartbeat, mental or mood swings; muscle pain, cramping or weakness.

Capreomycin may cause other side effects not mentioned here. Talk with your doctor if you have questions regarding the possible side effects of this drug as well as how to avoid them. And as always, be alert for any unusual or persistent symptom so that proper intervention will be given right away. 

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