Gentamycin And Amikacin

Question 1

What is the therapeutic range for gentamicin in multiple daily dose regimens?

Answer 1

5 to 10 mg/L (3 to 5 mg/L for endocarditis)

Pre-dose (trough) concentration should be < 2 mg/L (< 1 mg/L for endocarditis)

Question 2

What is the major route of elimination for gentamicin?

Answer 2

Renal excretion

This is crucial to monitor renal function due to nephrotoxicity risks.

Question 3

What can increase the risk of nephrotoxicity when aminoglycosides are administered?

Answer 3

Ciclosporin, tacrolimus, vancomycin

These drugs can enhance the toxic effects of aminoglycosides.

Question 4

What are the warning signs that should be monitored when using aminoglycosides?

Answer 4

Renal function, auditory and vestibular function

Ototoxicity can lead to irreversible hearing impairment.

Question 5

What should patients be advised to do before starting treatment with aminoglycosides?

Answer 5

Ensure patient is hydrated and drinking adequate amounts of fluid

This helps prevent dehydration.

Question 6

What is the therapeutic range for lithium in maintenance therapy?

Answer 6

0.4 to 1 mmol/L

The lower end is preferred for maintenance therapy and elderly patients.

Question 7

What is the therapeutic range for lithium during acute episodes of mania?

Answer 7

0.8 to 1 mmol/L

This range is for patients who have previously relapsed or have acute episodes.

Question 8

True or False: Increased plasma concentration of alprazolam can occur with amiodarone.

Answer 8

True

Alprazolam interactions can lead to increased plasma concentrations.

Question 9

What are the drugs that can cause toxicity when used in conjunction with diuretics?

Answer 9

Aminoglycosides

Close monitoring is required due to the risk of nephrotoxicity.

Question 10

Fill in the blank: The peak serum concentration for gentamicin should be _______ for endocarditis.

Answer 10

< 5 mg/L

Question 11

What factors should be considered when determining serum-aminoglycoside concentration?

Answer 11

Elderly, renal impairment, high doses, obesity, cystic fibrosis

These factors affect drug clearance and toxicity risk.

Question 12

What increases the risk of ototoxicity when using aminoglycosides?

Answer 12

Loop diuretics, vancomycin

These combinations can heighten the risk of hearing loss.

Question 13

What should patients report immediately to a doctor when taking aminoglycosides?

Answer 13

Warning signs such as hearing impairment or disturbance

Early detection can prevent irreversible damage.