Garamycin Eye/Ear Drop

Side Effects of Garamycin Eye/Ear Drop

Dizziness or vertigo; acute renal failure, interstitial nephritis, acute tubular necrosis; electrolyte imbalances; transient elevation of serum bilirubin and aminotransferases; purpura; nausea, vomiting; convulsions, mental depression, hallucinations. Atrophy or rat necrosis at inj sites. Potentially Fatal: Nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity and neuromuscular blockade (may unmask or aggravate myasthaenia gravis).

Drug Interactions

Synergistic with ampicillin, benzylpenicillin and other β-lactam antibiotics. Increased risk of severe respiratory depression when used concurrently with anaesthetics or opioids. May reduce renal clearance of zalcitabine and induce hypocalcaemia when used with biphosphonates. Not to be used with agalsidase alfa or beta as it may inhibit α-galactosidase activity. Potentially Fatal: Increased incidence of ototoxicity when combined with ethacrynic acid and furosemide. Cephalosporins, ciclosporin, cisplatin, vancomycin, hydrocortisone and indometacin potentiate nephrotoxicity. Potentiates neuromuscular blocking agents.

Contraindications

History of hypersensitivity to aminoglycoside; pregnancy; hepatic impairment, perforated ear drum.

Mechanism of Action

Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside that binds to 30s and 50s ribosomal subunits of susceptible bacteria disrupting protein synthesis, thus rendering the bacterial cell membrane defective. Absorption: Poorly absorbed from the GI tract (oral); rapid (IM); systemic absorption from denuded skin and burns (topical) and from wounds, body cavities, joints (instillation, irrigation). Distribution: Diffuse mainly into the extracellular fluids; but only small amounts enter the CSF even when the meninges are inflamed. Poorly diffused (Ophthalmic), readily diffused (perilymph of the inner ear). Crosses the placenta and enters the breast milk. Accumulates mainly in the kidneys. Excretion: Via the urine by glomerular filtration (virtually unchanged); 2-3 hr (elimination half-life).

Special Precautions

Concurrent use of neuromuscular blocking agents; myasthenia gravis, parkinsonism; conditions predisposing to ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity; lactation. Monitor plasma concentrations of gentamicin in patients receiving high doses or prolonged courses, in infants, elderly, patients with renal impairment, cystic fibrosis or significant obesity. Monitor auditory and renal functions.

How to Use

Take orally with food and water, as directed by your physician.

How to Store

Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

Safety Concerns

• Alcohol: Avoid during treatment.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated.
• Liver/Kidney: Use with caution.

Content Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor before use.