Unigenta

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

Unigenta Introduction

Unigenta 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. Unigenta is available in injection, ointment, capsule, and eye drop form.

Uses for Unigenta

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

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

Route of Elimination

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

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

Precaution

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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

Unigenta 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 Unigenta

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Unigenta

1. What is Unigenta?

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

2. How does Unigenta work?

Unigenta 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 Unigenta used to treat?

Unigenta 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 Unigenta?

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

5. What are the potential side effects of Unigenta?

Common side effects of Unigenta 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 Unigenta?

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

7. Is there an age limit to taking Unigenta?

Unigenta 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 Unigenta while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Unigenta 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 Unigenta taken?

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

10. How often should Unigenta be taken?

The frequency and duration of treatment with Unigenta 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 Unigenta?

If you miss a dose of Unigenta, 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 Unigenta?

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

13. Is Unigenta safe for long-term use?

Unigenta 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 Unigenta?

Yes, a prescription is required for Unigenta.

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

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

16. Is Unigenta available as a generic?

Yes, Unigenta is available as a generic medication.

17. Is Unigenta covered by insurance?

Yes, most insurance plans cover Unigenta.

18. How long does Unigenta take to work?

Unigenta 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 Unigenta safe for children?

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

20. Does Unigenta interact with any other drugs?

Unigenta 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 Unigenta.

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

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

22. Can I drink alcohol while taking Unigenta?

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

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

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

24. Can I take Unigenta with other antibiotics?

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

25. Is it safe to take Unigenta while breastfeeding?

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

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

Unigenta 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 Unigenta.

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

Unigenta 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 Unigenta.

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

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

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

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

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

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