What is the primary reason aminoglycosides are not effective when administered orally for systemic infections?
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Correct answer: They are highly polar cations and are not absorbed across the GI mucosa
Aminoglycosides are polycationic and highly polar. This prevents them from diffusing across the lipid membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, necessitating parenteral (IM or IV) administration for systemic effect.
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