Gentamycin Injection 80mg/2ml
Gentamycin Injection (also spelled Gentamicin) is a potent broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic. In Nigeria, it is primarily used in hospital settings to treat serious systemic infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It works by preventing bacteria from producing essential proteins, effectively stopping the infection.
What is Gentamycin Injection Used For?
Nigerian healthcare professionals prescribe Gentamycin for critical bacterial conditions, including:
- Severe Systemic Infections: Effective against neonatal sepsis and bloodstream infections (septicaemia).
- Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTI): Often used for severe kidney or bladder infections that require fast relief.
- Bone and Joint Infections: Management of osteomyelitis and related bacterial issues.
- Respiratory Tract Infections: Treatment of severe hospital-acquired pneumonia.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Used in combination therapy for reproductive tract infections.
How to Use Gentamycin Injection
This is a Prescription-Only Medicine (POM). It must be administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
- Administration: It is given via Intramuscular (IM) injection or a slow Intravenous (IV) infusion.
- Dosage: Your doctor will determine the dose based on your weight and kidney function. In Nigeria, the 80mg/2ml strength is the standard clinical presentation.
- Duration: While symptoms may improve within 24 to 48 hours, the full course must be completed to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Important Safety Information
Gentamycin has a narrow therapeutic range and requires careful monitoring.
- Kidney and Ear Health: High doses or long-term use can lead to nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) or ototoxicity (hearing and balance issues). Doctors in Nigeria typically monitor renal function during treatment.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: It should only be used if the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Consult a GoMed pharmacist or your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Contraindications: Inform your provider if you have a history of allergies to aminoglycosides like Neomycin or Amikacin.
For more information on dosage or to check availability of specific brands like Gentalek, you can chat with a GoMed pharmacist online.
