Gentamicin Injection and Kayexalate

• Generic Name: gentamicin
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Garamycin, Cidomycin, Septopal

Gentamicin injection is used to treat serious bacterial infections in many different parts of the body.

Gentamicin belongs to the class of medicines known as aminoglycoside antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, gentamicin will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.

Gentamicin injection is usually used for serious bacterial infections for which other medicines may not work. However, it may also cause some serious side effects, including damage to your kidneys and the part of your body that controls hearing. These side effects may be more likely to occur in elderly patients and newborn infants. You and your doctor should talk about the benefit of gentamicin as well as the risks.

Gentamicin is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.

• Generic Name: sodium polystyrene sulfonate
• Dosage Forms: powder, for suspension
• Other Brand Names: Kalexate, Kayexalate, Kionex

Kayexalate binds itself to potassium in your digestive tract. This helps prevent your body from absorbing too much potassium.

Kayexalate is used to treat high levels of potassium in the blood, also called hyperkalemia.

Kayexalate works differently from other medicines because it passes into your intestines without being absorbed into your blood stream.

Kayexalate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.