For the treatment of pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections. Also being investigated for use in the treatment of sinus infections.
Tobramycin binds irreversibly to one of two aminoglycoside binding sites on the 30 S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Tobramycin may also destabilize bacterial memebrane by binding to 16 S 16 S r-RNA. An active transport mechanism for aminoglycoside uptake is necessary in the bacteria in order to attain a significant intracellular concentration of tobramycin.
LD<sub>50</sub>=441mg/kg (s.c. in mice)
The bioavailability of tobramycin may vary because of individual differences in nebulizer performance and airway pathology.
The elimination half-life of tobramycin from serum is approximately 2 hours after intravenous (IV) administration.