Gentamicin
Brands: Gentocin, GentaFuse
Gentamicin is an antibiotic used in pets to treat bacterial infections. Always consult your vet.
Used for
- skin infections
- ear infections
- urinary tract infections
How it is given
- Administration
- injection|topical|otic
- Frequency
- every 24 hours
- Duration
- 7-14 days
- Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 2 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 5-10 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Small dogs
- 5-10 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Medium dogs
- 5-10 mg/kg every 24 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Gentamicin sulfate
Side effects
Common
- nausea
- vomiting
Rare
- allergic reactions
Severe
- nephrotoxicity
- ototoxicity
Do not use when
- renal dysfunction
- hypersensitivity to aminoglycosides
Interacts with
- Furosemide
- Amphotericin B
Warnings
- Use caution in dehydrated animals
- Monitor renal function
Gentamicin questions
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Administer the dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose.
Can Gentamicin be used in pregnant animals?
Use with caution and only if necessary, as advised by your vet.
What if my pet experiences vomiting?
Contact your veterinarian for advice.
How long does treatment usually last?
Treatment duration varies, typically 7-14 days.
Is Gentamicin safe for long-term use?
It is generally not recommended for long-term use due to potential toxicity.
Full drug detail
Overview
Gentamicin is a widely used antibiotic effective against a variety of bacterial infections in pets. It's particularly useful in treating infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. As a potent aminoglycoside, Gentamicin should be used under veterinary guidance.
How It Works
Gentamicin works by binding to the 30S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, interrupting protein synthesis and ultimately leading to bacterial death. This mechanism makes it effective against susceptible strains of bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Gentamicin is primarily used to treat:
- Skin infections
- Ear infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Respiratory infections
- Bone infections
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 5-10 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Medium Dogs: 5-10 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Large Dogs: 5-10 mg/kg every 24 hours
Cats
- Standard Dosage: 2 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
Dosage may vary based on the condition being treated and the form of Gentamicin used. Always follow your veterinarian's instructions.
Administration
Gentamicin can be administered in various forms:
- Injection: For systemic infections
- Topical: For skin infections
- Otic: For ear infections
Side Effects
Common
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Rare
- Allergic reactions
Severe
- Nephrotoxicity
- Ototoxicity
Seek immediate veterinary care if severe side effects occur.
Precautions & Warnings
Gentamicin should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity to aminoglycosides or in those with renal dysfunction without veterinary supervision. Use caution in dehydrated animals.
Drug Interactions
- Furosemide: May increase nephrotoxic effects
- Amphotericin B: Increased risk of toxicity
Storage
Store Gentamicin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
FAQ
- What should I do if I miss a dose? Administer the dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose.
- Can Gentamicin be used in pregnant animals? Use with caution and only if necessary, as advised by your vet.
- What if my pet experiences vomiting? Contact your veterinarian for advice.
- How long does treatment usually last? Treatment duration varies, typically 7-14 days.
- Is Gentamicin safe for long-term use? It is generally not recommended for long-term use due to potential toxicity.
Conclusion
Gentamicin is an effective antibiotic for treating various infections in pets. Always consult your veterinarian for the right dosage and administration method to ensure the safety and health of your pet.