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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using gentamicin (Garamycin)?

Do not use gentamicin without first talking to your doctor if you have

• sulfite sensitivity;
• kidney disease;
• hearing loss or loss of balance due to ear problems;
• Parkinson's disease; or
• a neuromuscular disorder such as myasthenia gravis.

You may not be able to use gentamicin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

How should I take gentamicin (Garamycin)?

If you are injecting gentamicin at home, your healthcare provider will give you detailed instructions on how and where to inject the medication. If you do not understand these directions, do not attempt to inject the medication. Contact your healthcare provider for further instructions.

Do not use any gentamicin that is discolored, has particles in it, or looks different from your previous doses. Throw away any unused gentamicin after the amount of time determined by your pharmacist or doctor.

Adequate hydration is important during treatment with gentamicin. Fluids may be administered intravenously during treatment.

It is important that the medication be given on a regular schedule and for the entire amount of time prescribed by your doctor.

Gentamicin may cause damage to the kidneys and/or nerves. Kidney function and drug levels in the blood may be monitored with blood tests during treatment. Tell your doctor if you experience hearing loss, dizziness, numbness, skin tingling, muscle twitching, or seizures which may be signs of nerve damage.

Dispose of used needles and syringes in a puncture resistant container out of the reach of children.

Your healthcare provider will store gentamicin as directed by the manufacturer or give you detailed storage instructions if you are storing the medication at home.

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