Gentamicin

Definition

Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections by inhibiting protein synthesis. It is effective against a range of Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gentamicin works by binding to the 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes, disrupting protein synthesis.
2. It is commonly used to treat severe infections like sepsis, endocarditis, and complicated urinary tract infections.
3. Gentamicin can be nephrotoxic and ototoxic, requiring careful monitoring of kidney function and hearing during treatment.
4. It is often administered intravenously or intramuscularly due to poor oral absorption.
5. Gentamicin resistance can occur through mechanisms such as enzymatic modification by bacteria or mutations affecting ribosomal binding.

Review Questions

• What is the primary mechanism of action for gentamicin?
• Which types of infections are typically treated with gentamicin?
• What are two major side effects associated with gentamicin use?

Related terms

Aminoglycosides:

A class of antibiotics that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit.

Nephrotoxicity: Kidney damage or impaired kidney function caused by exposure to toxic substances, including certain medications like gentamicin.

Ototoxicity: Hearing loss or balance disorders resulting from exposure to specific chemicals or drugs, including aminoglycosides like gentamicin.