A patient on long-term aminoglycoside therapy develops bilateral high frequency sensorineural hearing loss. Which of the following aminoglycosides is primarily vestibulotoxic rather than cochleotoxic?

• A Amikacin
• B Kanamycin
• C Gentamicin
• D Streptomycin ✓

Explanation

Aminoglycosides vary in their toxicity profiles. Streptomycin is predominantly vestibulotoxic, causing balance issues rather than hearing loss. Amikacin and kanamycin are primarily cochleotoxic, causing bilateral high frequency sensorineural hearing loss. Gentamicin affects both the cochlea and vestibular system equally. Recognizing these distinct profiles is essential when monitoring patients on long-term aminoglycoside therapy to prevent irreversible damage.

Reference: Katzung Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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