KEY POINTS
- Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that inhibits bacterial growth in susceptible organisms by interfering with bacterial protein synthesis
- Binds to 30S and 50S ribosomal subunits, resulting in a defective bacterial cell membrane
- Exhibit concentration-dependent bacterial killing (higher peak levels means more bacterial killing)
- Has activity against many organisms, including susceptible Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii
- May be given via the intravenous, intrathecal, ophthalmic or topical
- Dosing is similar to tobramycin, while amikacin doses are typically larger than gentamicin or tobramycin doses on a mg/kg basis
- Use of extended-interval IV doses is generally more favorable towards reducing toxicity and maximizing efficacy
- Adjust IV gentamicin doses & frequency for kidney impairment
- Monitoring drug levels may be indicated
- Nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity are potential side effects of IV therapy
- See below resources for more on dosing/monitoring
RESOURCES
