Antibiotics have been a staple in modern medicine for more than 100 years. One of the early antibiotics that proved to be an effective treatment for a range of bacterial infections is Streptomycin Sulphate. This antibiotic is a member of the aminoglycoside family and is an important weapon in the fight against bacterial infections. Let's delve deeper into this versatile antibiotic and see why it is so effective.
Chemical properties of Streptomycin Sulphate
Streptomycin Sulphate is a water-soluble powder that is derived from Streptomyces griseus, a soil-dwelling bacterium. The chemical formula of Streptomycin Sulphate is C21H39N7O12.3H2SO4, and its molecular weight is 1,381.49 g/mol. It has a white or yellowish-white appearance and is odorless. Streptomycin Sulphate is soluble in water, but slightly soluble in ethanol.
Applications of Streptomycin Sulphate
Streptomycin Sulphate is primarily used for treating bacterial infections such as tuberculosis, plague, tularemia, brucellosis, and endocarditis. It is also used to treat infections caused by gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes.
Streptomycin Sulphate is available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, injections, and topical ointments. Streptomycin Sulphate injections are the most commonly used form, as they are more effective in treating serious bacterial infections.
Mechanism of action of Streptomycin Sulphate
Streptomycin Sulphate works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. It binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit and prevents elongation of the protein chain, thereby inhibiting growth and multiplication of bacteria. This leads to the eventual death of the bacteria, as they are unable to function properly without protein synthesis.
Side effects of Streptomycin Sulphate
Like all antibiotics, Streptomycin Sulphate is associated with certain side effects. Some of the common side effects of Streptomycin Sulphate include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and ringing in the ears. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as hearing loss, kidney damage, and liver damage. Therefore, it is always important to consult a doctor before taking any antibiotics.
Conclusion
Streptomycin Sulphate is a versatile antibiotic that has been in use for more than 70 years. It has been proven to be an effective treatment for a range of bacterial infections, and it is available in various forms. However, like all antibiotics, it is important to use Streptomycin Sulphate judiciously and under the guidance of a medical professional.