Adult

Paromomycin

Warning

General Information

Paromomycin supply varies worldwide. Consult pharmacy before starting treatment.

Unlicensed Restricted formulary antimicrobial: For details see OUH netFormulary

Standard dose

  • Nitroimidazole resistant giardiasis: 10mg/kg po tds for 7 days
  • Eradication of intraluminal Entamoeba histolytica cysts: 25mg to 35mg/kg/day po in 3 divided doses for 7 days

Paromomycin is only available in 250mg capsules or tablets for oral administration. Use actual body weight to calculate the dose and round the total daily dose up to the nearest number of capsules or tablets. 

Renal and hepatic impairment

Renal impairment

No dose adjustment necessary. Use with caution in renal impairment.

 

Hepatic impairment 

No dose adjustment necessary

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Discuss with pharmacy

Breastfeeding: Discuss with pharmacy

Additional information

  • Oral aminoglycoside
  • Avoid in patients with myasthenia gravis and intestinal obstruction.
  • Use with caution in patients with inflammatory bowel disease because may lead to ototoxicity or nephrotoxicity.
  • Most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea, especially with doses larger than 3 grams per day. 

References

  • Freedman D. Sanford Guide. Paromomycin. Last revision of text 2/12/24. Accessed online on 24/2/25.
  • Uptodate. Paromomycin. Version 195. Accessed on-line on 24/2/25.

Editorial Information

Next review date: 01 Feb 2028