Aminoglycoside Antibiotic
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Streptomycin is a powerful antibiotic injection that works by killing bacteria, stopping them from making the proteins they need to survive and multiply in your body.
Binds to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting protein synthesis and resulting in bactericidal activity against susceptible aerobic gram-negative and gram-positive organisms, as well as Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Tuberculosis (TB), plague, serious bacterial infections that other antibiotics cannot handle, brucellosis, tularemia, bacterial endocarditis (serious heart infection)
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Since this drug is given by injection at a hospital or clinic, try not to miss your appointment. If you miss a dose, go to see your healthcare worker as soon as possible to get your injection, and do not try to double up.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always get your streptomycin injection from a registered hospital or clinic; never buy from roadside sellers or unregistered chemists, as fake drugs are common. Complete your full TB treatment course even if you feel better, because stopping early can make the bacteria resistant and harder to treat. Report any hearing changes or ringing in the ears to your doctor immediately, as catching it early can prevent permanent damage.
Avoid using with other drugs that can damage the kidneys or hearing, such as gentamicin, amikacin, or furosemide (Lasix). If you are taking any blood thinners like warfarin, let your doctor know. Alcohol should be avoided as it can increase the risk of side effects and put extra stress on your liver and kidneys.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Streptomycin with your other drugs?
Streptomycin is NOT safe during pregnancy, as it can cause permanent deafness in the unborn baby, and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using it.
Store the powder in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in cars. Once mixed with water, use it immediately or store in a refrigerator and use within 24 hours. Always keep away from children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.