GENTAMICIN
Overview:
Gentamicin is one of the antibiotics used in treating severe bacterial infection. It works on preventing the growth of bacteria and can work against a wide number of harmful bacteria. Gentamicin is usually injected in hospitals in order to treat blood infections, lung infections, and urinary or bone infections.
Classification:Aminoglycoside antibiotics
Uses:
Gentamicin is a drug that is administered to cure severe bacterial diseases within the blood, lungs, urinary tract, bones and abdomen. It is also applied to skin infections, eye bacteria and ear bacteria as creams, ointments, or drops. It also has special utility against Gram-negative bacteria and is frequently employed in hospitals during serious infections by gentamicin.
How it works:
Gentamicin operates by combining with the bacterial ribosomes particularly the 30S subunit and preventing the synthesis of proteins, which is the means through which bacteria can grow and thrive. Without such proteins, the bacteria cannot function and they eventually die. This process has categorized gentamicin as bactericidal,i.e.killing the bacteria and not just overgrowing it. It is more especially effective against Gram-negative bacteria and it is also commonly used in the treatment of serious infections.
Dosage:
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects:
Skin irritation, redness, or rash (topical use)
Pain or swelling at injection site (injection form)
Burning or stinging in the eyes or ears (eye/ear drops)
Nausea and vomiting
Precautions:
Before you begin gentamicin, tell your doctor whether you have kidney problems, hearing problems or muscle diseases like myasthenia gravis. Gentamicin can actually damage the kidney or result in hearing complications especially when taken in high doses or with a prolonged use. When you are under this medication, your doctor may be required to monitor your kidney operation and hearing. It should also be applied properly according to the prescription, do not use it on the eyes, ears or on any damaged skin unless the product is specifically intended to be used on those. In case you are pregnant or nursing, inform your doctor.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage