Monitor creatinine at least weekly and more often if levels are elevated or other signs of renal dysfunction arise
Discontinue if any signs of ototoxicity (tinnitus, fullness in ears, dizziness)
Consult pharmacy for interpretation of concentrations
For most patients and indications, no concentrations are necessary, unless patient suspected at high risk for development of nephrotoxicity or renal dysfunction, or duration of treatment more than 5 days
In cases where there is concern regarding treatment efficacy due to lack of response or severe infection treated with monotherapy, for cystic fibrosis (CF) or febrile neutropenia:
Obtain drug concentrations with the third or fourth dose. Peak serum concentrations are drawn 30 minutes after the end of an IV infusion or one hour post-IM injection.
Concentrations are typically not required
Therapy less than 48 hours: No serum concentrations
Therapy greater than 48 hours + risk of gentamicin toxicity: Draw 22 hour post dose serum concentration and consult pharmacy
Goal pre-dose concentration:
If pre-dose concentration is: