After completing this article, readers should be able to:
Aminoglycosides are among the most frequently used antibiotics in neonatology, usually for patients in whom sepsis is suspected. Despite the development of third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins and other new antibiotics, gentamicin, netilmicin, tobramycin, and amikacin continue to be important tools for treating serious infections in neonates. They are bactericidal, have a relatively low rate of bacterial resistance, and have a low cost. Aminoglycosides used concurrently with beta-lactam antibiotics yield synergistic activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria as well as reduced development of resistance. However, aminoglycosides have a narrow therapeutic window, and close monitoring is required to minimize potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. In the past few years, dosing regimens have been changed in the hopes of increasing efficacy and decreasing toxicity. This review discusses the evidence supporting high-dose/extended-interval regimens and their application to neonates.
Aminoglycoside antibiotics have been used since the...
Comments