Dr. Abhijit MBBS , General Physician

Do not self-administer Gelkacin. It comes in the form of injection and given preferably 2 - 3 times in a day (Intravenously). Discontinuing the medicine in between may promote resistant bacteria which result in a relapse of the infection. You are recommended to complete the 7 - 10 days course even after getting symptomatic relief. In case you feel any discomfort such as hearing loss and nephrotoxicity while taking Gelkacin please inform your doctor immediately. 

Gelkacin is a brand name for amikacin. It is a prescription drug which belongs to the class of medication known as an aminoglycoside antibiotic. It is a broad spectrum antibiotic which is used for the treatment of bacterial infection such as bone, joint, skin, intra-abdominal, pneumonia, and respiratory tract infection. It is used for short-term treatment (7 - 10 days) of bacterial infection in different part of the body. It is also used for the treatment of neonatal sepsis when sensitivity testing indicates that other aminoglycosides cannot be used.

Dr Anjum Mujawar MBBS, MBBS , Emergency Medicine

Yes, Gelkacin is nephrotoxic. Nephrotoxicity depends on dose and duration of therapy. Thus, nephrotoxicity is likely to occur if Gelkacin taken a high dose for a long time or may occur if the drug is given to a patient that already suffer from kidney problem. Nephrotoxicity associated with this drug may reduce or minimize by taking some precaution before consuming this drug like monitor kidney functions regularly and do not take it in high doses. Avoid taking Gelkacin with another nephrotoxic drug. If you notice any urine discoloration after taking this drug then inform your doctor immediately.

Dr. Gaurav MBBS , General Physician

Occasionally, Gelkacin can cause drug-induced thrombocytopenia (blood clot formation in the vessel). However, if you experience severe thrombocytopenia after taking this medicine, please immediately seek medical help.

Dr. B. K. Agrawal MBBS, MD , Cardiology, General Physician, Internal Medicine

Yes, Gelkacin has been reported to cause ototoxicity (hearing loss or deafness) which is irreversible and may progress after discontinuation of the drug. It is a common side effect of this medicine. If you experience hearing loss or deafness after consuming or applying for this medicine, then consult your doctor and follow his/her instructions.