Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of aminoglycosides?

Aminoglycosides are a class of antibiotics that are primarily used to treat serious infections caused by gram-negative bacteria. One important characteristic of aminoglycosides is that they are typically not absorbed well in the gastrointestinal tract, which is why they are usually administered intravenously or intramuscularly rather than orally. This method allows for higher systemic levels of the drug to effectively combat severe infections.

The other characteristics of aminoglycosides include their effectiveness against resistant bacteria, making them valuable in treating specific severe infections. They are often reserved for such cases due to their potency and the potential for serious side effects, including ototoxicity, which affects hearing and balance. These features highlight the specific uses and risks associated with aminoglycosides that set them apart from other antibiotic classes.