Aminoglycosides
Aminoglycosides kill bacteria by disrupting how they make proteins. Gentamicin is given by injection for serious gram-negative infections of the blood, lungs, urinary tract, abdomen, and nervous system, often together with another antibiotic. They can damage the kidneys and the inner ear, causing hearing loss or balance problems that may be permanent. Blood levels, kidney function, and hearing are monitored, and courses are kept as short as possible.