At a Glance Why Get Tested? To monitor the level of an
aminoglycoside antibiotic such as gentamicin, tobramycin, or
amikacin in the blood to ensure adequate dosing and help avoid
toxic side effects When to Get Tested? At regular intervals
during treatment with an aminoglycoside A blood sample drawn
from a vein in your arm Test Preparation Needed? None, but
timing of the sample for testing is important; follow your
doctor's directions. The Test Sample What is being tested?
Aminoglycosides are a group of antimicrobials (antibiotics) that
are used to treat serious bacterial infections. These tests
measure the level of the prescribed aminoglycoside in the blood
in order to adjust doses as necessary and ensure effective
treatment while avoiding toxic side effects. Gentamicin,
tobramycin, and amikacin are the most commonly prescribed
aminoglycosides, and they are used to treat infections cause by
certain types of bacteria called Gram-negative bacteria as well
as a few Gram-positive bacteria. (For more on these, see