Gentamicin topical Uses, Side Effects & Warnings (2024)

Generic name: gentamicin topical [JEN-ta-MYE-sin-TOP-ik-al]
Brand names: G-Myticin, Garamycin Topical
Dosage forms: topical cream (0.1%), topical ointment (0.1%)
Drug class: Topical antibiotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 9, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is gentamicin topical?

Gentamicin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria.

Gentamicin topical (for use on the skin) is used to treat skin infections caused by bacteria.

Gentamicin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Gentamicin topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have signs of a new skin infection--swelling, warmth, redness, or oozing.

Common side effects of gentamicin topical may include:

itching; or
skin redness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use gentamicin topical if you are allergic to gentamicin.

Gentamicin is not approved for use by anyone younger than 1 year old.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

How should I use gentamicin topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Before you apply gentamicin topical, wash and thoroughly dry the infected skin.

Gently wash away any crusts from the infected skin. This will help the medicine better penetrate the infection more easily

Apply a small amount of gentamicin topical to the affected area.

Cover the skin with a gauze dressing if desired.

Keep your hands and skin clean to avoid further infection.

Gentamicin topical dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Skin and Structure Infection:

Apply a small amount topically to lesions 3 to 4 times a day

Comments:
-Cream or ointment should be applied gently.
-Area may be covered with a gauze dressing if desired.
-In the treatment of impetigo contagiosa, the crusts should be removed prior to application of this drug to permit maximum contact between antibiotic and infection.

Uses: For the treatment of primary skin infections (e.g., impetigo contagiosa, superficial folliculitis, ecthyma, furunculosis, sycosis barbae, and pyoderma gangrenosum); for the treatment of secondary skin infections (e.g., infectious eczematoid dermatitis, pustular acne, pustular psoriasis, infected seborrheic dermatitis, infected contact dermatitis [including poison ivy], infected excoriations, and bacterial superinfections of fungal or viral infections)

Usual Pediatric Dose for Skin and Structure Infection:

Greater than 1 year: Apply a small amount topically to lesions 3 to 4 times a day

Detailed Gentamicin topical dosage information

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of gentamicin topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using gentamicin topical?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect gentamicin topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Gentamicin topical drug interactions (more detail)

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circ*mstances.

Medical Disclaimer