Purpose of Gentamicin Sulfate

Gentamicin sulfate is the topical form of the antibiotic gentamicin that is used either in injections or as a topical ointment. While it is a powerful antibiotic, gentamicin sulfate does carry the risks of severe side effects.

Targets

• Gentamicin sulfate is mostly used to treat infections caused by gram negative bacteria (a type of bacteria classified based on the structure of its cell wall).

Mechanism

• Gentamicin sulfate works by interrupting the basic processes of the bacteria it attacks. After entering the bacterium, it binds to a specific protein on the ribosomal 30 S subunit, preventing the bacterium from making proteins or causing it to produce incorrectly shaped ones.

Injection Uses

• Gentamicin sulfate is given as an injection to treat serious infections of the central nervous system. Because of its potential for side effects, it is not used for extended treatment.

Topical Uses

• As a topical ointment, gentamicin sulfate is used to treat bacterial skin infections, such as skin cysts and infected insect bites. It is also used on minor ulcers.

Side Effects

• Gentamicin sulfate is toxic to tissues in the ears. Excessive doses or use in people with renal problems can lead to irreversible hearing loss or deafness.