Which demographic should avoid using Aminoglycosides?

Aminoglycosides are a class of antibiotics used to treat serious infections, but their use comes with certain precautions due to potential side effects, particularly concerning renal function and ototoxicity. Pregnant individuals should avoid aminoglycosides due to the risk of fetal harm. These antibiotics can cross the placenta and may pose a risk to the developing fetus, including potential hearing loss and kidney damage, as well as other developmental issues.

The safety profile of aminoglycosides suggests that they can negatively affect both the mother's health and the baby's development, especially during critical periods of fetal growth. The decision to avoid these medications during pregnancy often stems from the need to balance the risks of untreated infections against the potential harmful effects on the fetus.

In contrast, while newborns and children, adults over 65 years old, and those with asthma may have specific considerations regarding dosage and the potential for adverse effects, they are not automatically excluded from using aminoglycosides. For instance, with careful monitoring, aminoglycosides can be used in pediatric populations or the elderly, but they require cautious administration due to increased sensitivity to side effects. Similarly, asthma does not inherently contraindicate the use of aminoglycosides, as this condition is not directly impacted by