Antibiotic (Aminoglycoside)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Gentamicin is a strong antibiotic that kills bacteria by stopping them from making the proteins they need to survive — it works against many types of serious bacterial infections.
Binds irreversibly to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting protein synthesis and causing bactericidal cell death; this mechanism is effective against aerobic gram-negative bacteria, some gram-positive organisms, and certain anaerobes commonly encountered in serious systemic and localized infections.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Gentamicin injection is usually given by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic — not something you inject yourself at home. The usual adult dose is 3-5 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into doses given every 8 hours or as a single daily dose. For eye/ear drops, the usual dose is 1-2 drops into the affected eye or ear every 4-6 hours. For skin ointment, apply a thin layer to the infected area 3-4 times daily. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
For injections, your doctor or nurse will keep track of your schedule — let them know if you think a dose was missed. For eye/ear drops or skin ointment, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not double up.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Do not buy gentamicin injection from roadside sellers or patent medicine stores and try to inject yourself — this drug requires proper medical supervision and monitoring. Complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better, because stopping early can cause the infection to return stronger. If you notice any changes in your hearing, ringing in your ears, or you are urinating less than usual, stop the drug and see your doctor immediately.
Avoid using gentamicin together with other drugs that can damage the kidneys or ears, such as furosemide (Lasix) which many Nigerians use for swelling. Do not combine with other strong antibiotics like amikacin or streptomycin as this increases the risk of hearing and kidney damage. If you are taking any muscle relaxants or anaesthesia drugs, tell your doctor as gentamicin can increase their effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Gentamicin with your other drugs?
Gentamicin is not safe during pregnancy as it can damage the baby's hearing and kidneys — it should also be used with caution during breastfeeding, so always consult your doctor before use.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in cars or near windows. Keep eye/ear drops tightly closed after use and do not use them more than 28 days after opening. Store all forms away from children and in a dry place away from humidity.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Gentamicin?
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