Gentamicin (20mg/2ml)

Gentamicin (20mg/2ml) — Uses and Benefits

Gentamicin injection is used to treat serious infections caused by certain types of bacteria, especially when other antibiotics are not suitable.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Severe bacterial infections of the blood (septicaemia)
• Urinary tract infections
• Infections of the abdomen (peritonitis)
• Skin, bone and soft tissue infections
• Infections following surgery
• Serious infections in newborns, in combination with other antibiotics

HOW IT WORKS

• Gentamicin belongs to a group of antibiotics called aminoglycosides
• It works by entering bacterial cells and stopping them from making proteins they need to survive
• This action kills the bacteria and helps clear the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Viral infections such as cold, flu or COVID-19
• Fungal infections
• Minor infections that can be treated with oral antibiotics
• Preventing infection without a doctor's advice

How to Use Gentamicin (20mg/2ml)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• This medicine is given only by a doctor or trained healthcare professional, usually as an injection into a muscle or vein
• It is not meant for self-administration at home
• The dose and duration will be decided by your doctor based on your infection and kidney function
• You may need blood tests during treatment to monitor kidney function and drug levels
• Complete the full course as advised, even if you start feeling better

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Since this medicine is given under medical supervision, missed doses are managed by the healthcare team
• Inform your doctor or nurse if a scheduled dose was missed so it can be adjusted
• Do not try to self-administer an extra dose

STORAGE

• Store as directed by the hospital or pharmacy, usually below 25°C, protected from light
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use if the vial appears discoloured or has particles in it
• This medicine is handled and stored by healthcare staff, not usually kept at home

Gentamicin (20mg/2ml) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Pain or irritation at the injection site
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Skin rash
• Fever
• Numbness or tingling sensation

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Ringing in the ears, hearing loss or dizziness
• Decreased urination or swelling of feet/ankles (signs of kidney problems)
• Muscle weakness or difficulty breathing
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, throat or difficulty breathing
• Persistent diarrhoea
• Unsteady gait or loss of balance

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

Gentamicin (20mg/2ml) — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to gentamicin or other aminoglycoside antibiotics
• Have a known history of severe hearing loss due to previous aminoglycoside use

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Have any hearing problems or balance issues
• Have myasthenia gravis or other muscle disorders
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as dose adjustment may be needed

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antibiotics that affect kidneys or hearing, such as vancomycin
• Diuretics like furosemide
• Muscle relaxants used during surgery
• Other nephrotoxic drugs like certain NSAIDs
• Always tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements you are taking

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine at home?

No, gentamicin injection is given only in a hospital or clinic under medical supervision.

Will I need any tests during treatment?

Yes, your doctor may monitor your kidney function and hearing, especially with longer courses.

Is gentamicin safe during pregnancy?

• It should be used only if clearly necessary and under strict doctor supervision, as it may affect the baby.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.