Clinical Information

Gentamicin is used in the treatment of serious infections involving aminoglycoside-sensitive organisms. Monitoring gentamicin concentration in serum or plasma, along with careful clinical assessment, is the most effective means of ensuring adequate therapy. Gentamicin concentration correlates better with antibacterial activity than dosage. A standard dose of gentamicin does not always yield a predictable concentration as the drugs concentration depends on the patient’s volume of distribution and on drug elimination. These factors are influenced by the mode of administration, the volume of extracellular fluid, renal retention, and physiological changes during therapy. Gentamicin has a narrow range of safe and effective concentration.

Exposure to high concentrations for a prolonged period may cause renal impairment or ototoxicity. Patients with impaired renal function should be monitored closely while on gentamicin therapy due to nephrotoxicity caused by gentamicin may be difficult to distinguish from symptoms of underlying renal disease.