Netilmicin is a semisynthetic aminoglycoside antibiotic derived from sisomicin, widely recognized for its broad-spectrum activity against Gram-negative and certain Gram-positive bacteria. First developed in the late 1970s, netilmicin was designed to overcome some of the resistance and toxicity issues associated with older aminoglycosides such as gentamicin and amikacin. Its chemical modification enhances antibacterial potency while reducing the risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity compared to some earlier drugs in its class. Clinically, netilmicin has been used to treat severe infections including sepsis, respiratory tract infections, and complicated urinary tract infections, especially in hospital settings. Over time, it has remained an important tool in the antibiotic arsenal, particularly for patients requiring potent therapy against resistant bacterial strains, although its use is carefully monitored due to potential side effects and the global challenge of antibiotic resistance.
