Empiric (in combination) or targeted therapy for suspected or confirmed gram negative infections.
Empiric therapy for pyelonephritis.
Used synergistically in enterococcal endocarditis.
Monitor creatinine at least 3 times/week. Discontinue if any signs of ototoxicity.
Once daily dosing: Target trough <1mcg/mL.
Multiple daily dosing: Peak monitoring poorly supported by literature, but target peak 4-10mcg/mL; trough 1-2mcg/mL only if using >4 days.
NB: Trough level is 0-60min before a dose (usually pre-4th), and peak is 30-60min after dose infused (usually post-3rd).
In critically ill patients, check peak level after the 1st dose as volume of distribution and renal function may change rapidly.
Nephrotoxicity (non-oliguric)
Avoid concomitant nephrotoxins
Less common with once daily dosing
Greater toxicity with longer duration and supratherapeutic trough levels
Vestibulocochlear toxicity
Irreversible
Require audiology testing if prolonged use
Can exacerbate neuromuscular blockade
Increased nephrotoxicity
Increased ototoxicity
Non-depolarizing muscle relaxants may be potentiated.
Formal audiology assessment if planning to use aminoglycoside for >7d or if symptoms develop.
Inform patient of risk of ototoxicity and to report any symptoms.
Antimicrobial class: Aminoglycoside
Pregnancy category: D
Average serum half life: 2 hours
Biliary penetration: Moderate
CSF penetration: Poor
Lung penetration: Therapeutic
Urine penetration: Therapeutic