Gentamicin

Question 1

What are the multiple daily dose regimes of gentamicin

Answer 1

One hour: 5 to 10mg/L

Endocarditis: 3 to 5mg/L

Question 2

What is the pre-dose (trough) concentrations

Answer 2

<2mg/L

<1mg/L for endocarditis

Question 3

What is the monitoring for aminoglycosides

Answer 3

Renal function (nephrotoxicity)
Auditory and vestibular function (ototoxicity which is irreversible) 
Serum aminoglycoside (must be determined in the elderly, all those receiving parenteral treatments, renal impairment and obesity)

Question 4

What are the warning signs of gentamicin that you need to report to the doctor

Answer 4

Nephrotoxicity

Ototoxicity (hearing impairment or hearing disturbance)

Dehydration (ensure patient is well hydrated)

Question 5

How does gentamicin effect pregnancy and breast feeding

Answer 5

Risk of auditory or vestibular disorder in 2nd and 3rd trimester

Question 6

What are the main drug interactions in gentamicin

Answer 6

Increased risk of nephrotoxicity when given with CICLOSPORIN, TACROLIMUS, VANCOMYCIN

Increased risk of ototoxicity when given with LOOP DIURETICS, VANCOMYCIN