Gentamicin (On the skin)
jen-ta-MYE-sin
Treats skin infections.
Drug classes
Antibacterial (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Gentamicin belongs to the family of medicines called antibiotics. Gentamicin topical preparations are used to treat infections of the skin.
Gentamicin is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Cream, Ointment
Your doctor will tell you how often to use this medicine.
Before applying gentamicin, wash the affected area with soap and water and dry thoroughly.
Put the medicine on your skin and rub in gently.
Use this medicine for as long as your doctor tell you. Don’t stop using it, even if the infection looks better.
If a dose is missed:
Use the medicine as soon as possible.
Then go back to the usual times that you use your medicine.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
Store at room temperature; do not freeze.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Do not put anything else on the skin where you are using gentamicin unless approved by your doctor.
When Not To Use
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to gentamicin or other aminoglycoside antibiotics such as neomycin.
Warnings
If your infection does not get better or gets worse while using this medicine, contact your doctor.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Severe skin irritation, redness or swelling that was not there before using this medicine
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Mild redness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Garamycin
There may be other brand names for this medicine.