Derm's Gentamycin Injection 80 mg /2 mL

Who is this for?

Gentamicin is a strong antibiotic that kills bacteria by stopping them from making the proteins they need to survive — it works against many types of serious bacterial infections.

Binds irreversibly to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting protein synthesis and causing bactericidal cell death; this mechanism is effective against aerobic gram-negative bacteria, some gram-positive organisms, and certain anaerobes commonly encountered in serious systemic and localized infections.

Is Gentamicin safe to take with another drug?

Gentamicin injection is usually given by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic — not something you inject yourself at home. The usual adult dose is 3-5 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into doses given every 8 hours or as a single daily dose. For eye/ear drops, the usual dose is 1-2 drops into the affected eye or ear every 4-6 hours. For skin ointment, apply a thin layer to the infected area 3-4 times daily. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.

For injections, your doctor or nurse will keep track of your schedule — let them know if you think a dose was missed. For eye/ear drops or skin ointment, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not double up.

• Pain or irritation at the injection site
• mild nausea or stomach upset
• slight burning or stinging when using eye/ear drops
• skin rash or itching when using the ointment

Avoid using gentamicin together with other drugs that can damage the kidneys or ears, such as furosemide (Lasix) which many Nigerians use for swelling. Do not combine with other strong antibiotics like amikacin or streptomycin as this increases the risk of hearing and kidney damage. If you are taking any muscle relaxants or anaesthesia drugs, tell your doctor as gentamicin can increase their effects.

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in cars or near windows. Keep eye/ear drops tightly closed after use and do not use them more than 28 days after opening. Store all forms away from children and in a dry place away from humidity.