INDUCTION OF NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY BY ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF STREPTOMYCIN

¹ From the Merck Institute for Therapeutic Research, Rahway, New Jersey

Rats receiving 160,000-375,000 units per kg. of streptomycin in conjunction with a purified diet failed to develop significant nutritional deficiencies although some evidence of toxicity was observed. Rats fed a higher level of the drug, namely 580,000-875,000 units per kg. showed signs similar to those observed in experimental biotin deficiency. Furthermore, the animals responded to biotin therapy. Microbiological analyses indicated a decreased biotin synthesis. Deficiency signs ascribable to a lack of folic acid or vitamin K were not observed.

The change in coliform count, a reduction following a return to normal, was similar to that seen with the sulfonamides; however the degree of depression was much greater. The total flora was likewise depressed with streptomycin which was not the case with succinylsulfathiazole. These findings would seem to indicate that for the temporary sterilization of the gastro-intestinal tract streptomycin might be more effective than succinylsulfathiazole.