Gentamicin

• Type: Antibiotic (from the aminoglycoside class)

• Main Use: Treats bacterial infections, especially those caused by Gram-negative bacteria.

How It Works

• Gentamicin binds to bacterial ribosomes (the protein-making machinery) and stops them from producing proteins they need to grow.

• This kills the bacteria or prevents them from multiplying, clearing the infection.

Forms Available

• Eye drops/ointment – for eye infections

• Ear drops – for bacterial ear infections

• Injection/IV form – for serious infections in the body

• Topical cream/ointment – for infected wounds or burns

Common Uses

Eye/Ear Form:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)

• Keratitis (corneal infection)

• Ear infections (otitis externa)

Injection/IV Form (Hospital Use):

• Severe systemic infections like sepsis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or abdominal infections

• Often used in combination with other antibiotics for serious infections

Advantages

• Very effective against many serious Gram-negative bacterial infections

• Works quickly

• Available in many forms (eye drops, injections, creams)

Possible Side Effects

Eye/Ear Use:

• Temporary stinging or burning

• Eye redness or irritation

Systemic Use (injection):

• Kidney toxicity (nephrotoxicity) — risk increases with prolonged use

• Hearing damage (ototoxicity) — can cause ringing in the ears or hearing loss

• Balance problems (affecting the inner ear)

Precautions

• Dose and duration must be carefully controlled, especially with injections, to avoid kidney or ear damage.

• Blood levels may be monitored during hospital treatment to keep the drug at a safe range.

• Not recommended for long-term use unless absolutely necessary.