About gentamicin sulfate
Aminoglycoside antibiotic
Used for
- Treats serious infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including bloodstream, urinary, and abdominal infections.
- May be used with other medicines for certain infections, such as endocarditis.
Usual adult dose
Usually 3–6 mg/kg per day by injection, given once daily or in divided doses; adjusted for kidney function and drug levels.
Usual dose in children
Usually 5–7.5 mg/kg per day by injection in divided doses; dosing varies by age, infection, and kidney function.
Common side effects
- Kidney damage
- Hearing or balance problems, sometimes permanent
- Nausea or vomiting
- Injection-site pain or rash
Important warnings
- Requires medical supervision and monitoring of kidney function and, often, blood levels.
- Risk of hearing damage increases with high doses, prolonged treatment, or kidney problems.
- Use cautiously with medicines that can harm the kidneys or hearing.
- Not effective against viral infections.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; fetal hearing damage is a concern, particularly with prolonged exposure.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter milk; infant absorption is expected to be low, but monitor for diarrhea or thrush.
Interactions
- Other kidney- or hearing-damaging medicines, including vancomycin and some cancer medicines
- Loop diuretics, such as furosemide
- Neuromuscular blockers and some anesthetics
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.