Gentamicin
Also sold as: Garamycin
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor and depends on body weight and kidney function. Given by injection, usually once a day; blood tests may be needed. Eye drops: use as your doctor directs.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- pain at the injection site
- nausea
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- hearing loss or ringing in the ears
- dizziness or loss of balance
- reduced urine (kidney damage)
- severe allergic reaction
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Pregnancy
- Myasthenia gravis
- Kidney disease (needs dose change and blood tests)
- Existing hearing or balance problems
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Serious2 medicinesDo not take these together unless your doctor says so.
- Furosemide
Together they raise the risk of permanent hearing loss and kidney damage.
- Vancomycin
Together they raise the risk of kidney damage; kidney tests are needed.
Moderate3 medicinesTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Cefotaxime
Often given together, but the risk of kidney damage is higher; kidney function should be checked.
- Magnesium sulfate
Both can weaken muscles and breathing; use together only with close monitoring.
- Tenofovir disoproxil
Both can harm the kidneys; kidney function should be checked.