Aminoglycosides Flashcards
What type of antibiotic is gentamicin?
Aminoglycoside
What are common indications for using gentamicin?
Severe infection:
- Severe sepsis
- Pyelonephritis
- Complicated UTI
- Biliary/intra-abdominal spesis
- Endocarditis
Why can Aminoglycosides not be given orally?
Are Highly polarised - do not cross lipid membranes
How is Gentamicin given in terms of route?
IV only
What are the most important side effects of aminoglycoside use?
- Nephrotoxicity
- Ototoxicity
Why is regular monitoring of aminoglycosides important?
Essential to prevent renal, cochlear and vestibular damage, particularly in neonates and the elderly
How is the dose of gentamicin calculated?
Calculated from the patient’s weight and renal function
What is the dose interval for gentamicin in those with normal renal function?
1 dose every 24 hours
How long should you treat someone with gentamicin for?
As short as possible - usually < 7 days
When is plasma drug level usually measured with gentamicin?
18-24 hours after first dose (trough level)
When measuring trough levels of gentamicin, when should you withold the next dose?
If trough level is above safe limit - repeat levels in next 24 hours
How would you monitor efficacy with gentamicin adminstration?
- Symptoms/signs of infection
- Blood inflammatory markers (CRP)
What would you look at to determine the safety of using gentamicin before and during administration?
Renal function
What types of organisms is gentamicin particularly effective against?
Gram negative
