Gentamicin 20mg

Gentamicin 20mg — Uses and Benefits

Gentamicin is used to treat serious infections caused by certain types of bacteria, especially gram-negative organisms.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Serious infections of the blood, abdomen, urinary tract and skin
• Infections of the eye or ear when given as drops
• Infections in newborns and severely ill patients as part of hospital treatment
• Used sometimes together with other antibiotics for a broader effect

HOW IT WORKS

• It is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that binds to bacterial ribosomes
• This stops the bacteria from making proteins needed to survive
• As a result, sensitive bacteria are killed and the infection is controlled

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat viral infections such as cold, flu or most sore throats
• It is not effective against fungal infections
• It should not be used for infections that are not confirmed or suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria
• It is not a general painkiller or fever medicine

How to Use Gentamicin 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Gentamicin is usually given by a doctor or nurse as an injection into a muscle or vein
• If prescribed as eye or ear drops, use exactly as directed by your doctor, usually a set number of drops at fixed times
• Complete the full course as advised, even if you feel better early
• Do not adjust the dose or frequency yourself
• Inform your doctor of your weight and kidney function, as dosing depends on these

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Since this medicine is usually given in a hospital or clinic, missed doses are managed by the healthcare team
• If you are using drops at home and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one
• Contact your doctor if doses are missed repeatedly

STORAGE

• Store as per label instructions, usually below 25°C, away from direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use eye/ear drops after the recommended period once opened
• Do not use if the solution looks discoloured or has particles

Gentamicin 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Pain or irritation at the injection site
• Nausea
• Mild skin rash
• Temporary stinging when used as eye or ear drops

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Mild fever

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Hearing loss, ringing in the ears or loss of balance
• Reduced urine output or swelling of legs, suggesting kidney problems
• Severe dizziness or difficulty walking
• Muscle weakness or difficulty breathing
• Signs of severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face/throat, breathlessness, or severe rash

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Gentamicin 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to gentamicin or other aminoglycoside antibiotics
• Have a known history of severe reaction to this medicine in the past

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Have any hearing problems or balance disorders
• Have myasthenia gravis or other muscle-related conditions
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as dose adjustment may be needed
• Are already on other medicines that affect kidneys or hearing

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other aminoglycoside antibiotics
• Diuretics such as furosemide
• Other medicines that can affect the kidneys, such as certain painkillers (NSAIDs)
• Muscle relaxants used during surgery
• Certain other antibiotics like vancomycin

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used strictly under medical supervision.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use this medicine without a doctor's prescription?

No, gentamicin is a prescription-only medicine and must be used under medical supervision.

Will this medicine affect my hearing?

In some people, especially with prolonged use or kidney problems, it can affect hearing, so doctors monitor patients carefully during treatment.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, you should complete the full course as prescribed unless your doctor advises otherwise, to prevent the infection from returning.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.