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Tobramycin

Rx only
Aminoglycoside✓ FDA-verified
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Tobramycin is an antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, including infections in the bloodstream, lungs, and urinary tract, as well as infections affecting the central nervous system and skin. It works by stopping bacteria from making proteins they need to grow and multiply. The medication is given as an injection, typically starting at a dose of 3 mg for every kilogram of body weight each day, divided into three doses every eight hours, and can go up to 5 mg per kilogram for life-threatening infections. It's important to know that if you have a history of allergic reactions to similar antibiotics, you should not use tobramycin. Additionally, it can interact with other antibiotics, so if you're taking any other medications, especially aminoglycosides, be sure to inform your healthcare provider.

Uses

  • Septicemia in neonates, children, and adults.
  • Lower respiratory tract infections.
  • Serious central-nervous-system infections (meningitis).
  • Intra-abdominal infections.
  • Skin, bone, and skin structure infections.
  • Complicated and recurrent urinary tract infections.

Dosage

Adults with serious infections: 3 mg/kg/day in 3 doses every 8 hours.
Adults with life-threatening infections: Up to 5 mg/kg/day in 3 or 4 doses.
Pediatric patients: 6 to 7.5 mg/kg/day in 3 or 4 doses.
Premature or full-term neonates: Up to 4 mg/kg/day in 2 doses every 12 hours.
Monitor renal function and serum levels during treatment.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.

Side effects

Common

Dizzinessvertigotinnitushearing lossRising BUNserum creatinineand oliguriaAnemiafeverrashnauseavomitingPain at the injection sitemental confusion

Serious

Serious allergic reactionsincluding anaphylaxis
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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Close monitoring for ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity is required.
  • Hearing loss may be irreversible.
  • Use caution in patients with renal impairment.
  • Avoid concurrent use with certain diuretics.
  • May cause fetal harm in pregnant women.

Drug interactions

  • Other aminoglycosidesincreased risk of ototoxicity and nephrotoxicityMonitor
  • Potent diureticsenhanced aminoglycoside toxicityCaution
  • Cisplatinincreased risk of nephrotoxicityMonitor
  • Vancomycinincreased risk of nephrotoxicityMonitor

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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).