Gentam

Gentam Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Gentam is a brand name. Its generic name is Gentamicin.

Gentam Introduction

Gentam is an antibiotic in the aminoglycoside family. It is usually prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Gentam is available in injection, ointment, capsule, and eye drop form.

Uses for Gentam

Gentam is used to treat serious bacterial infections including pneumonia, meningitis, septicemia, endocarditis, and urinary tract infections. It is also used to prevent post-operative infections.

Mechanism of Action

Gentam works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to and alters the ribosomes in bacterial cells, blocking vital processes leading to cell death.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of gentamicin begin within one to two hours after administration. Depending on the severity of infection, improvement may be noticed in as early as 24 hours.

Absorption

Gentam is poorly absorbed when taken orally. When administered intravenously (IV), it is rapidly and completely absorbed.

Route of Elimination

Gentam is eliminated mainly in the kidney, with only a small amount being excreted in the faeces.

Dosage

The dosage of gentamicin varies depending on the individual and the type of infection being treated. Typical doses in adults and children over 12 years of age include:

• IV route: 2-3 mg/kg per day, divided into 2 or 3 doses a day
• Oral route: 2-3 mg/kg/day, divided into 2 or 3 doses a day.

Administration

Gentam can be administered intravenously (IV) or orally. It can also be administered transdermally as an ointment to treat infected skin.

Side Effects

Common side effects of gentamicin include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash, itching, headache, dizziness, vertigo, and tinnitus.

Toxicity

Gentam is potentially toxic. It can cause permanent hearing loss, kidney damage, and neuromuscular paralysis. It is important not to exceed the recommended dose.

Precaution

Gentam should be used with caution in people with impaired renal or hepatic function, as well as those with hearing impairment. It should not be used to treat viral infections.

Interaction

Gentam can interact with certain drugs, such as other antibiotics, seizure medications, and diuretics. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

Disease Interaction

Gentam can increase the risk of kidney damage in people with diabetes. It can also increase the risk of hearing impairment in people with myasthenia gravis and muscular dystrophy.

Drug Interaction

Gentam can interact with other medications including antibiotics, seizure medications, and diuretics. Tell your doctor about all drugs you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

Food Interactions

Gentam may interact with certain foods, such as dairy products. It is important to take gentamicin on an empty stomach or several hours after meals.

Pregnancy Use

Gentam is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, it should be used with caution in women with preterm labor, as extra caution should be taken to prevent early delivery.

Lactation Use

Gentam is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding before taking gentamicin.

Acute Overdose

Overdosing on gentamicin can cause hearing loss, kidney damage, nephrotoxicity, and central nervous system toxicity. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.

Contraindications

Gentam should not be used by people with previous allergy to gentamicin or other aminoglycosides. It should also be avoided in patients who suffer from neuromuscular diseases.

Use Direction

Gentam should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose, and do not stop taking gentamicin without consulting your doctor.

Storage Conditions

Gentam should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place (preferably a refrigerator). Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution (Vd) for gentamicin is 0.36-0.6 liters/kg. This means that gentamicin is widely distributed throughout the body and can reach all body tissues.

Half Life

The half-life of gentamicin is 2-3 hours. This means that half of the drug will be eliminated from the body in 2-3 hours after administration.

Clearance

The clearance of gentamicin from the body is relatively rapid (3-5 mL/min/kg). Therefore, frequent dosing is necessary to maintain an effective therapeutic concentration.

Here you find in details version of Gentam

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Gentam

1. What is Gentam?

Gentam is an antibiotic used to treat a wide range of infections caused by certain bacteria.

2. How does Gentam work?

Gentam works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. It does this by preventing the bacteria from making proteins that they need to survive and multiply.

3. What is Gentam used to treat?

Gentam is used to treat a wide range of infections caused by certain bacteria, including skin, urinary tract, ear, respiratory, and intra-abdominal infections.

4. Who should not take Gentam?

People who are allergic to Gentam or any other antibiotic in the aminoglycoside family should not take Gentam.

5. What are the potential side effects of Gentam?

Common side effects of Gentam include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Other possible side effects include dizziness, hearing loss, and kidney damage.

6. What should I do if I experience a side effect from taking Gentam?

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any side effects while taking Gentam.

7. Is there an age limit to taking Gentam?

Gentam is safe to use in both adults and children, but dosage may vary depending on a person’s age and body weight.

8. Is it safe to use Gentam while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Gentam should only be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Contact your healthcare provider for more information.

9. How is Gentam taken?

Gentam is usually taken by mouth in tablet or capsule form, or as an intravenous or intramuscular injection.

10. How often should Gentam be taken?

The frequency and duration of treatment with Gentam depend on the type and severity of the infection being treated. Your healthcare provider can provide specific dosing instructions.

11. What happens if I miss a dose of Gentam?

If you miss a dose of Gentam, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

12. What should I avoid while taking Gentam?

You should avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery while taking Gentam as it may cause dizziness. Alcohol should also be avoided while taking Gentam.

13. Is Gentam safe for long-term use?

Gentam should not be used for long-term treatment unless absolutely necessary, as it may lead to the development of resistance to the antibiotic.

14. Is a prescription required for Gentam?

Yes, a prescription is required for Gentam.

15. Can Gentam be bought over-the-counter?

No, Gentam is a prescription-only medication and cannot be bought over-the-counter.

16. Is Gentam available as a generic?

Yes, Gentam is available as a generic medication.

17. Is Gentam covered by insurance?

Yes, most insurance plans cover Gentam.

18. How long does Gentam take to work?

Gentam usually starts to take effect within a few hours of taking the dose. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider.

19. Is Gentam safe for children?

Yes, Gentam is safe to use in both adults and children, but doses may vary depending on a person’s age and body weight.

20. Does Gentam interact with any other drugs?

Gentam can interact with other drugs and supplements, so it is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements that you are taking before taking Gentam.

21. Should I take Gentam with food or on an empty stomach?

Gentam should be taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset or nausea.

22. Can I drink alcohol while taking Gentam?

No, drinking alcohol while taking Gentam can increase the risk of side effects.

23. What should I do if I experience severe stomach pain or vomiting while taking Gentam?

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe stomach pain or vomiting while taking Gentam.

24. Can I take Gentam with other antibiotics?

No, taking Gentam with other antibiotics can lead to serious side effects. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting Gentam.

25. Is it safe to take Gentam while breastfeeding?

Gentam should only be used during breastfeeding if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information.

26. Is Gentam safe to use if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

Gentam should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the patient. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have a pre-existing medical condition before taking Gentam.

27. Is Gentam safe for people with kidney or liver disease?

Gentam can cause damage to the kidneys or liver if taken in high doses or for extended periods of time. People with kidney or liver disease should talk to their healthcare provider before taking Gentam.

28. What should I do if I experience hearing loss while taking Gentam?

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any hearing loss while taking Gentam.

29. Can Gentam be used to treat bacterial infections in the eye?

Gentam can be used to treat bacterial infections in the eye, but it should not be used to treat viral or fungal infections.

30. Can Gentam be used to treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Yes, Gentam can be used to treat some STIs such as gonorrhea and chlamydia.