The Unpredictability of Serum Concentrations of Gentamicin: Pharmacokinetics of Gentamicin in Patients with Normal and Abnormal Renal Function

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Abstract
The pharmacokinetics of gentamicin were studied after a single im injection of gentamicin over a wide range of doses (0.83–3.14 mg/kg) in patients with normal and abnormal renal function. The results of these studies indicated that peak levels in serum following the same dose of gentamicin per kg of body weight vary widely and that rates of disappearance of gentamicin from serum vary considerably in patients with comparable renal function. These data suggest that although nomograms for administration of gentamicin may serve as useful guides, individual measurement of serum levels is desirable in determination of therapy for patients with serious infections or with renal insufficiency and is essential in patients with changing renal function.