Gentamicin Pharmacology Flashcards

Study Notes

Gentamicin Overview

Gentamicin belongs to the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics, primarily targeting aerobic gram-negative bacterial infections.
Available in an 80mg/2ml ampoule preparation.

Indications

Indicated for treating sepsis alongside Augmentin, specifically for urinary tract infections, abdominal infections, or unknown site infections.
Recommended for patients aged 12 years and older; clinical consultation needed if hospitalization is over 30 minutes away.

Contraindications

Not to be administered in cases of known severe allergy to aminoglycosides.
Contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential risks.

Pharmacodynamics

Gentamicin irreversibly binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit in bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis essential for bacterial growth.
It disrupts bacterial cell wall integrity, leading to cell death.
The antibiotic creates "gaps" in gram-negative bacterial cell walls by displacing cations, further promoting bacterial demise.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption details are not specified.
Distribution involves no protein binding; plasma levels decline rapidly due to renal clearance.
Not metabolized in the body; excretion occurs through glomerular filtration in an active and unchanged form.
Clearance is reduced in those with significant kidney impairment, neonates, infants, and elderly patients, though initial dosing remains unaffected.
The elimination half-life is approximately 2.1 hours.

Dosage

For an 80kg patient, the recommended dosage is 400mg, depending on specific patient factors.

Description

Test your knowledge on Gentamicin with these flashcards covering its classification, preparation, indications, and contraindications. Perfect for students and professionals studying pharmacology. Enhance your understanding of this essential aminoglycoside antibiotic.