Gentamicin

Introduction: Gentamicin is an antibiotic used to prevent or treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This may include infections of the urinary tract, bones and joints, lungs (eg. pneumonia), brain (eg. meningitis), sepsis and some others.

How it works: Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, disrupting protein synthesis, thus rendering the bacterial cell membrane defective and stopping bacterial growth.

Important Information: It is given as a drip (intravenous infusion) or as an injection. Kidney damage and hearing loss are potential side effects - regular kidney function and hearing tests are required. Do not use during pregnancy.

• Bacterial infections

Aminoglycosides

Aminoglycoside antibiotic

Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, disrupting protein synthesis. It affects the integrity of the plasma membrane and the metabolism of RNA, but it's most important effect is inhibition of protein synthesis at the level of the 30s ribosomal subunit.

Gentamicin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis on the ribosome, thereby stopping bacterial growth and reproduction.

Adult Dose:

• Dosing is individualized - depends on type and severity of infection
• Usually given as IV or IM injection

Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be needed

* Use as directed by the registered physician

Intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection. Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Do not self-administer.

If you miss a dose, consult your doctor.

Common Side Effects:

• Hearing loss
• Kidney damage
• Balance disorder
• Injection site pain

Precautions:

• Regular monitoring of kidney function and hearing.
• Avoid dehydration.
• Caution with neuromuscular blocking agents.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Gentamicin or aminoglycosides
• Myasthenia gravis

Drug Interactions:

• Additive effect with other neurotoxic and nephrotoxic drugs
• Loop diuretics (ethacrynic acid, furosemide) increase ototoxicity risk

Food Interactions:

• Consuming alcohol with Gentamicin does not cause any harmful side effects.

Use in Pregnancy: Unsafe during pregnancy. There is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby.

Use in Lactation: Safe during breastfeeding. Studies suggest the drug does not pass into breastmilk in significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.

Pediatric Use: Use as per doctor's advice for children.

Geriatric Use: Elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function - dose adjustment may be needed.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution in kidney disease. Dose adjustment may be needed.

Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available. Please consult your doctor.

Overdose: Overdose increases risk of ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Supportive care should be given.

Storage: Store below 30°C, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Gentamicin Injection