Gentamicin

• Why is gentamicin ineffective against anaerobic bacteria?

  Gentamicin entry into bacteria is through O2 dependent active transport
• What is gentamicin?

  Aminoglycoside antibiotic
• What is the pharmacology of gentamicin?

  Target: 30s ribosomal protein

  Action: Antagonist
• MOA - Gentamicin

  3 phases

  1. Ionic binding phase- gentamicin electrostatically binds to negatively charged components of bacterial cell membrane -> increased membrane permeability -> entry
  2. Energy-dependent phase I - entry into cytoplasm relies on proton-motive force (O2 dependent) -> gentamicin in cytoplasm -> binds to bacterial 30s ribosome -> mistranslation of protein & disruption of cytoplasmic membrane
  3. Energy-dependent phase II - gentamicin rapidly accumulates in cell

  = membrane disruption -> immediate bacteriocidal effects

  = impaired protein synthesis -> delayed bacteriocidal effects
• What are the indications of gentamicin?

  Various bacterial infections

  Ineffective against anaerobic bacteria
• What are the side effects of gentamicin?

  Diarrhoea

  Fever

  Nausea
• What is the monitoring required for gentamicin?

  Monitor serum concentration & renal function