Maxigen Dosage/Direction for Use

In the management of many of the infections it is commonly given intramuscularly every 8 hours to provide a total daily dose of 3 to 5 mg of gentamicin per kg body-weight. Slightly lower doses have been suggested in the prophylaxis and treatment of streptococcal and enterococcal endocarditis: a dose of 80 mg of gentamicin, given twice daily has been suggested for treatment, and 120 mg before induction of anaesthesia. For urinary-tract infections, if renal function is not impaired, 160 mg once daily may be used.
Gentamicin sulfate may also be given intravenously in similar doses to those used intramuscularly. The course of treatment should generally be limited to 7 to 10 days. As gentamicin is poorly distributed into fatty tissue some authorities suggest that dosage calculations should be based on an estimate of lean body-weight.
Doses in infants and children are usually somewhat higher than those in adults but exact dosage recommendations vary. One regimen is gentamicin 3 mg/kg every 12 hours in premature infants and those up to 2 weeks of age, with older neonates and children receiving 2 mg/kg every 8 hours. Alternatively, 2.5 mg/kg every 12 hours in the first week of life, 2.5 mg/kg every 8 hours or 3 mg/kg every 12 hours in infants and neonates, and 1.5 to 2 mg/kg every 8 hours in children has been given. Or as prescribed by the physician.
Single Dose. Discard any remaining portion.