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Paromomycin
Generic name: paromomycin
Brand names: Humatin, Paromycin
What is paromomycin?
Paromomycin is an antibiotic used to treat some intestinal infections. Paromomycin is also used to treat certain liver issues.
Paromomycin may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
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How should I take paromomycin?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Always take paromomycin with food when treating an intestinal infection.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Paromomycin will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
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Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package.
Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
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Before taking this medicine
You should not use paromomycin if you are allergic to it, or if you have a bowel obstruction.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- kidney disease;
- an intestinal disorder such as ulcerative colitis; or
- any allergies.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Paromomycin side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Paromomycin may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:
- diarrhea that is watery or bloody; or
- worsening symptoms.
Common side effects of paromomycin may include:
- nausea, stomach cramps; or
- mild diarrhea.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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Paromomycin dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Amebiasis:
25 to 35 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses with meals for 5 to 10 daysComments:-This drug is not effective in extraintestinal amebiasis.Use: For intestinal amebiasis (acute and chronic)
Usual Adult Dose for Hepatic Coma:
4 g/day orally in divided doses (at regular intervals) for 5 to 6 daysUse: As adjunctive therapy, for management of hepatic coma
Usual Adult Dose for Dientamoeba fragilis:
US CDC Recommendations: 25 to 35 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses for 7 daysComments:-Recommended as a regimen to treat infection due to Dientamoeba fragilis-Current guidelines should be consulted for additional information.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Amebiasis:
25 to 35 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses with meals for 5 to 10 daysComments:-This drug is not effective in extraintestinal amebiasis.Use: For intestinal amebiasis (acute and chronic)
Usual Pediatric Dose for Dientamoeba fragilis:
American Academy of Pediatrics Recommendations: 25 to 35 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses for 7 daysComments:-Recommended as a regimen to treat infection due to D fragilis-Current guidelines should be consulted for additional information.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.
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What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, drinks, or activities.
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What other drugs will affect paromomycin?
Other drugs may affect paromomycin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.
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Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.