glossary

capreomycin

Definition capreomycin

capreomycin

capreomycin n. an antibiotic, derived from the bacterium Streptomyces capreolus. That is used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It is given with other antituberculosis drugs to reduce the development of resistance by the infective bacteria. Capreomycin is poorly absor bed from the gastro-inteatinal tract and trerefore must be administered by intramuscular injection. The more serios side-effects include ear and kidney damage.