Which aminoglycoside antibiotic is known to prevent the conversion of protein to ammonia in the colon?

The aminoglycoside antibiotic that is known to prevent the conversion of protein to ammonia in the colon is Neomycin. This medication works by inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria, particularly those that produce ammonia from proteins in the gut. By reducing the bacterial load and their ability to metabolize proteins, Neomycin helps to lower the levels of ammonia produced in the colon, which is particularly beneficial in conditions like hepatic encephalopathy where ammonia levels need to be controlled to prevent neurological complications.

Neomycin is often utilized in clinical settings for patients with liver impairment, as it aids in managing elevated ammonia levels that can arise from protein breakdown by intestinal bacteria. This effect is important because elevated ammonia can lead to significant health issues, including confusion and lethargy due to its impact on brain function.

In contrast, other antibiotics listed, such as Streptomycin and Tetracycline, do not have the same targeted effect on ammonia production in the colon. Vancomycin primarily targets Gram-positive bacteria and does not specifically address the conversion of protein to ammonia. Therefore, Neomycin stands out as the appropriate choice for this specific function of ammonia reduction in the gastrointestinal tract.