GENTAMICIN SULPHATE

Gentamicin DBL

Reviewed by Dr Carl Kuschel and Brenda Hughes

February 2001
Administration of IV bolus updated September 2007

Management of Gentamicin Administration

Description

Clear solution in ampoules 10 mg/ml.

Prescription

Stat doses to be charted on stat page of prescription chart in mg/dose.
Maintenance doses are charted on the prescription chart in mg/dose.

Administration

Slow IV Infusion

Dilution not required unless baby <1000 grams.
Dilute to 2 mg/ml for use in ELBW infants using our usual dilution method.
Administer by slow IV bolus over 2-3 minutes. Filter prior to administration through a Pall (0.2 micron) filter.
Compatible with D5W, D10W, 0.9% NaCl and IVN. Incompatible with Intralipid.
Do NOT mix with other drugs, blood or blood products.
Flush before and after administration of gentamicin with 0.9% NaCl

Observation and Documentation

Observe for signs of adverse effects.
Observe for signs of renal, hepatic and haematological dysfunction during prolonged therapy.

Storage

Unopened at room temperature <25°C.
Use immediately after opening.

Selected References

1	Koren T, Leeder S, Harding E. Optimisation of gentamicin therapy in very low birthweight infants. Pediatr Pharmacol 1985; 5:79.
2	Heindmarsh KW, Nation RL, Williams GL, et al. Pharmacokinetics of gentamicin in very low birthweight preterm infants. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1983; 24:649.