Spectinomycin

Spectinomycin is a bacteriostatic antibiotic chemically related to the aminoglycosides. Spectinomycin binds to the 30S subunit of the ribosome, thus inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Its activity is restricted to gonococci. Spectinomycin is excreted by glomerular filtration.

Indications include

• Gonococcal urethritis

• Cervicitis

• Proctitis

Spectinomycin is not effective for gonococcal pharyngitis. It is not available in the United States, and, where available, is reserved for patients who cannot be treated with ceftriaxone.

Adverse effects, including hypersensitivity reactions and fever, are rare.