This medication is used to treat minor infections of the skin (e.g., impetigo) or minor infections due to some skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, eczema, poison oak/ivy). Gentamicin belongs to a class of drugs known as aminoglycoside antibiotics. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for virus or fungus infections. Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
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Overview | Photos | How
To Use | Side
Effects | Precautions | Missed
Dose | Drug
Interactions | |
Ak-Gent
Uses
This medication is used to treat minor infections of the skin (e.g., impetigo) or minor infections due to some skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, eczema, poison oak/ivy). Gentamicin belongs to a class of drugs known as aminoglycoside antibiotics. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for virus or fungus infections. Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness. Notes
- Do not share this medication with others.Keep all medical appointments so that your doctor can monitor your progress or check for side effects.This medication has been prescribed for your current skin infection only.
- Do not use it later for another infection unless told to do so by your doctor.
- A different medication may be necessary in that case.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
How
To Use - Apply this product to the infected area of skin, usually 3 to 4 times daily or exactly as prescribed by your doctor.Clean and dry the affected area, removing any dried crust.
- After applying a thin film of cream/ointment to the affected area, cover with a bandage if directed to do so by your doctor.Dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
- To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
- Do not use more of this medication than prescribed, use it more frequently, or keep using it for longer than prescribed.
- Your skin condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects may be increased.Tell your doctor if your skin infection persists or worsens after 48 hours.
Side
Effects - Irritation, redness, and itching may occur.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: signs of a new infection (e.g., spreading skin redness, new milky/bloody liquid discharge).A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
- However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before using gentamicin topical, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., tobramycin, amikacin); or if you have any other allergies.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: suppressed immune conditions (e.g., cancer, HIV/AIDS, low white blood cells), advanced diabetes, blood circulation problems (e.g., peripheral vascular disease).Rarely, this medication may be absorbed into the bloodstream if you are applying it to a large area of your body with open wounds.
- Consult your doctor for other precautions in this case.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This medication is considered safe to use while breast-feeding.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding if you have further questions.
Missed
Dose - If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
- If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug
Interactions - Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them.
- Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.
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CONDITIONS
OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information
is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions
or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular
drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional
should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or
discontinuing any course of treatment. |