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Aminoglycoside — Neonatal Sepsis / Gram-Negative Infections in Children

Gentamicin (Paediatric)

Brand names: Cidomycin, Genticin

Paediatric use of gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, for serious Gram-negative and certain other infections including neonatal sepsis, usually given intravenously.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Binds the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, causing misreading of mRNA and inhibition of protein synthesis, producing concentration-dependent bactericidal activity.

Prescribing in practice

  • Gentamicin is nephrotoxic and ototoxic (including irreversible vestibular and auditory damage), so therapeutic drug monitoring with measured levels is essential, particularly in neonates and renal impairment.
  • Neonatal dosing intervals are extended because of immature renal clearance and must be confirmed against a children's formulary and local neonatal protocols.
  • Avoid or use additional caution with other nephrotoxic or ototoxic drugs given concurrently.

Monitoring

Monitor gentamicin serum concentrations alongside renal function, and assess for auditory or vestibular toxicity during therapy.

Counselling the patient

  • Explain to parents that blood levels are taken to keep the dose safe and effective.
  • Report any hearing change, balance problems or reduced urine output.
  • Mention any family history of hearing loss, as some individuals are especially susceptible.

Evidence & guidelines

Gentamicin with therapeutic drug monitoring is standard for serious Gram-negative and neonatal infection per the SPC and neonatal/paediatric infection guidance.

Reference: BPNG Neonatal Formulary; PHE Neonatal Sepsis Guidelines; NICE NG195 (Neonatal Infection); Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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