The drug Amikacin is derived from

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

ISRO Pharmacist Previous Year Question paper 2021

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Kanamycin

Rationale:

Amikacin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic derived from Kanamycin A. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-negative bacteria.
The process of derivation involves chemical modification of Kanamycin, which enhances its effectiveness and reduces susceptibility to bacterial enzymes that can inactivate aminoglycosides.

Explanation of Other Options:

Sisomicin

Rationale: Sisomicin is also an aminoglycoside antibiotic, but it is not the precursor of Amikacin. Sisomicin is structurally similar to Gentamicin and is used to treat similar types of infections.

Gentamicin

Rationale: Gentamicin is another aminoglycoside antibiotic, used widely for its effectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria. However, it is not related to the synthesis of Amikacin.

Neomycin

Rationale: Neomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used primarily for topical infections and as an oral medication to decontaminate the bowel before surgery. It is not the source from which Amikacin is derived.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, Kanamycin is the correct precursor for Amikacin. The chemical modification of Kanamycin leads to the production of Amikacin, which is used to treat severe bacterial infections, particularly those resistant to other aminoglycosides.