Which of the following is NOT one of the main side effects associated with Aminoglycosides?

• A. Superficial punctate keratitis
• B. Steven Johnson Syndrome
• C. Nephrotoxicity
• D. Ototoxicity

Answer: (B)

Aminoglycosides are best known for two major toxicities: nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Nephrotoxicity occurs because the drug concentrates in renal proximal tubule cells, potentially causing kidney injury. Ototoxicity happens from damage to inner ear hair cells, affecting hearing and balance. When used topically in the eye, they can also cause local irritation, such as superficial punctate keratitis. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, on the other hand, is not a typical or main adverse effect of aminoglycosides; it’s a rare severe hypersensitivity reaction more often linked to other drug classes. Therefore, the statement about Stevens-Johnson Syndrome does not fit the main side effect profile of aminoglycosides.