Gentamicin Questions and Answers

Q. What is Gentamicin?

A. Gentamicin is a potent, yet highly toxic antibiotic belonging to a class of drugs called aminoglycosides.  It is used in the treatment of bacterial infections affecting the skin, bone, lungs, joints, stomach, urinary tract, or blood. It is administered either intravenously or by injection into your muscle.

Q. What is Gentamicin poisoning?

A. Gentamicin toxicity is a harmful side effect caused by negligent administration of the antibiotic. When it is prescribed for a long period of time or in high dosages, it can accumulate and cause serious damage to the hair cells of the inner ear.  Usually, doctors who negligently prescribe Gentamicin fail to order appropriate monitoring.  Patients receiving Gentamicin should be under close clinical supervision, and should have regular monitoring of Gentamicin levels as well as kidney function.
Q. What are the symptoms of Gentamicin poisoning?
A. Because Gentamicin damages the inner ear, it can impair the patient's entire vestibular system.  Common symptoms include:

• Blurred vision
• Balance issues
• Feelings of vertigo
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Difficulty in crowds or in dark places

Q. What treatment options are available if I have suffered inner ear damage from Gentamicin?

A. Currently, there is no cure for inner ear damage caused by Gentamicin poisoning. It is possible to experience a partial recovery from injuries; however, the process is very slow. Your brain may be able to partially compensate for your inner ear damage by relying on other senses to provide important information. Vestibular rehabilitation, which stimulates your damaged ear region, may also provide some relief.

Q. Who can be held accountable for my Gentamicin poisoning injuries?

A. Medical malpractice lawsuits can be brought against negligent doctors, hospitals, or home health agencies responsible for prescribing, administering, and monitoring your use of Gentamicin.  Attorney Ryan Springer is an experienced Salt Lake City medical malpractice lawyer who has successfully litigated many Gentamicin poisoning cases on behalf of injured patients.  He can provide you with a free case evaluation to help you determine who can be held accountable for your damages.

Q. Are there time limits affecting my Gentamicin case?

A. Yes. There are statutes of limitations governing Gentamicin cases. It is crucial that you file your claim within these time limits in order to be able to receive the compensation you deserve. Since the statute of limitations may begin to run from the time the drug is negligently administered, it is important to talk with an experienced Utah malpractice lawyer immediately to ensure you do not miss important filing deadlines.
If you have suffered an injury caused by Gentamicin poisoning, contact Salt Lake City personal injury lawyer Ryan Springer at (801) 424-9088 today to schedule a free initial consultation.