Gentamicin is a broad spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic which has been widely used in the treatment of gram-negative organisms and some gram-positive organisms. In vitro tests have shown it to be active against Salmonella arizonae, Enterobactor aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Neisseria, most Proteus species, some Pasteurella multocida, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella, Serratia marcescens, Shigella, Staphylococcus species, and some Streptococcus species.
Absorption: Gentamicin is rapidly and well absorbed from intramuscular (IM) and subcutaneous (SC) routes of administration. It is poorly absorbed from oral administration in adult birds.
Caution. This drug is nephrotoxic (toxic to the kidneys) at high doses and while the bird is receiving this drug they need to be kept well hydrated. Due to the potential toxic side effects, this drug should only be given to poultry with life-threatening infections and which are resistant to less toxic antibiotics or amikacin.
Storage/Stability: Gentamicin sulfate for injection and the oral solution should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C); freezing or temperatures above 40°C should be avoided. The soluble powder should be stored from 2-30°C. Do not store or offer medicated drinking water in rusty containers or the drug may be destroyed.
