What it is used for
- Treating serious bacterial infections
- Bone infections
- Chest and airway infections
- Infection of the heart valves (endocarditis)
- Blood infection (septicaemia)
How it is used
- Given as an injection into a vein or muscle by a doctor or nurse, usually in hospital.
- Your doctor decides the dose and how long treatment lasts.
- Your doctor may order blood tests during treatment to adjust the dose.
Before and while using it
- It can affect hearing, balance or the kidneys; tell your doctor at once about ringing in the ears, hearing loss or dizziness.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney or hearing problems.
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any antibiotic.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take.
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: National drug formulary 2023, page 13
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.