Bacterial infections:
Indications for Gentamicin Inj:
Serious susceptible infections.
Adult:
Obesity: Base dose on lean body mass. Usual duration 7–10 days. 1mg/kg IM or IV every 8 hours; max 5mg/kg/day. For alternative dosing regimens (eg, extended intervals) see literature.
Children:
Premature and infants <1 week: 2.5mg/kg every 12 hours. Neonates: 2.5mg/kg every 8 hours. Others: 2–2.5mg/kg every 8 hours.
Warnings/Precautions:
Monitor for nephro- and neurotoxicity; avoid peak serum levels >12micrograms/mL (when dosed at conventional intervals) and trough levels >2micrograms/mL. Renal impairment: reduce dose, see literature; maintain adequate hydration. Prolonged use or excessive doses. Asthma. Neuromuscular disorders. Elderly. Pregnancy (Cat.D): not recommended.
Pharmacologic Class:
Aminoglycoside.
Interactions:
Avoid concomitant furosemide, ethacrynic acid, other nephro/neurotoxic drugs including cephalosporins. May potentiate neuromuscular blockade.
Adverse Reactions:
Nephro- or neurotoxicity, respiratory depression, lethargy, confusion, depression, visual disturbances, elevated liver enzymes, blood dyscrasias.
Note:
Formerly known under the brand names Garamycin, Gentafair.
How Supplied:
Contact supplier.
