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Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside, a type of antibiotic used to treat bacterial diseases. Aminoglycosides work by binding to bacterial ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis. This binding inhibits protein synthesis, ultimately leading to the death of the bacterial cell.

While most aminoglycosides are effective against gram-negative bacteria, gentamicin also shows some activity against gram-positive organisms. It is administered parenterally (by injection) because it is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Common side effects include kidney and hearing impairment.12

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  1. aminoglycoside
  2. antibiotic

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