Which statement about gentamicin safety is true?

Which statement about gentamicin safety is true?

• A. There is no risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity when using gentamicin
• B. Gentamicin does not require monitoring
• C. There is risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity when using Gentamicin
• D. Gentamicin is safe in all patients

Answer: (C)

Gentamicin carries real safety risks: it can cause nephrotoxicity (kidney injury) and ototoxicity (hearing and balance damage). This toxicity is dose- and duration-dependent and is more likely in patients with preexisting kidney impairment, dehydration, the elderly, or when other nephrotoxic drugs are used. Because of this, monitoring is essential—renal function tests and therapeutic drug monitoring to check trough levels help keep exposure within a safe range and guide dose adjustments for impaired function. In practice, we aim for the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration to minimize risk. That’s why the true statement is that there is risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity when using gentamicin. The other options imply no risk, no monitoring, or safety in all patients, which aren’t accurate given the potential for serious toxicity and the need for monitoring.

Gentamicin carries real safety risks: it can cause nephrotoxicity (kidney injury) and ototoxicity (hearing and balance damage). This toxicity is dose- and duration-dependent and is more likely in patients with preexisting kidney impairment, dehydration, the elderly, or when other nephrotoxic drugs are used. Because of this, monitoring is essential—renal function tests and therapeutic drug monitoring to check trough levels help keep exposure within a safe range and guide dose adjustments for impaired function. In practice, we aim for the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration to minimize risk.

That’s why the true statement is that there is risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity when using gentamicin. The other options imply no risk, no monitoring, or safety in all patients, which aren’t accurate given the potential for serious toxicity and the need for monitoring.