Gentamicin Sulfate topical

Superficial Skin Infections

Topically to treat superficial skin infections caused by susceptible organisms.a b c d

Role of topical anti-infectives for treatment of superficial skin infections has not been fully elucidated.c

Treatment of serious or extensive skin infections usually requires systemic anti-infective therapy.c

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to gentamicin or any ingredient in the formulation.a b c d

Warnings/Precautions

Sensitivity Reactions

Sensitization and photosensitivity reported following use of topical gentamicin.c d

Cross-allergenicity occurs among the aminoglycosides; consider the possibility that patients who become sensitized to topical gentamicin may be sensitive to other topical and/or systemic aminoglycosides.c

Closely observe patients hypersensitive to other topical antibiotics; discontinue gentamicin if irritation or hypersensitivity occurs.c

General Precautions

Possible emergence and overgrowth of nonsusceptible bacteria or fungi.a b c d Discontinue drug and institute appropriate therapy if superinfection occurs.a b c d

Possible cumulative toxicity if applied topically to large skin lesions or large areas of denuded skin in combination with systemic aminoglycoside therapy.c

Specific Populations

Category C.e

Not known whether gentamicin is distributed into milk following topical application;e distributed into milk in small amounts following systemic administration.e

AAP classifies gentamicin as compatible with breast-feeding.e

Safety and efficacy not established in children <1 year of age.a b d

Common Adverse Effects

Erythema, pruritus.a b d

Absorption

Bioavailability

Not usually absorbed from intact skin.c Readily absorbed from denuded areas of skin or skin that has lost the keratin layer (i.e., wounds, burns, ulcers).c

Greater absorption of gentamicin from cream than ointment.c

Storage

Topical

15–30°C.a b d