Gentamicin

Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic naturally produced by Micromonospora species and is used to treat invasive infections caused by aerobic Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria, including Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus species. It is not a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or other typical therapeutic target but is the active drug substance itself. Gentamicin acts by binding irreversibly to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, blocking protein synthesis and causing cell death. It is effective for bloodstream infections, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, meningitis, bone and soft tissue infections, among others. Use is limited by possible toxicity to the kidneys and inner ear, with permanent damage possible. Combination with other antibiotics, such as beta-lactam drugs, can result in a synergistic effect. Due to its toxicity profile and specific indication spectrum, use is often reserved for serious infections with susceptibility confirmed by culture and sensitivity testing.

Other names

Garamycin

Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit, causing misreading of mRNA and inhibiting translocation