Description
Uses
What is gentamicin used for?
Gentamicin is an antibiotic that is commonly used to treat the following serious infections caused by certain bacteria.
- Blood infections (septicemia)
- Infections of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Lung infections (such as bronchitis or pneumonia)
- Infections of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract
- Skin infections, including severe burns
- Bone and joint infections
- Infections of the heart and heart valves (endocarditis)
Gentamicin may not be appropriate for some of the infections listed above, depending on which germs are causing the infection. Bacteria in some locations may have developed resistance to gentamicin, which will make it less effective.
Gentamicin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does gentamicin work (mechanism of action)?
Gentamicin kills certain types of bacteria by preventing them from making proteins.
How is gentamicin supplied (dosage forms)?
Gentamicin is available in the following dosage forms that are injected into a blood vessel or a muscle.
- 10 mg injection
- 40 mg injection
- 60 mg injection
- 70 mg injection
- 80 mg injection
- 90 mg injection
- 100 mg injection
- 120 mg injection
How should I store gentamicin?
Gentamicin is usually given by a healthcare provider in a hospital or clinic. If you will store gentamicin at home, follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of gentamicin?
The most common side effects of gentamicin are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Itching or rash
- Fever or headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Joint pain
- Pain at the injection site
What are the serious side effects of gentamicin?
While less common, the most serious side effects of gentamicin are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Gentamicin may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using gentamicin and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble in swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Kidney Damage. Kidney damage may happen with gentamicin. The risk of kidney damage is higher if gentamicin is used for longer periods of time or at higher doses. The risk is also higher in people who already have kidney problems. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of kidney damage.
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