Serum Gentamicin Concentration (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of gentamicin, a medication used to treat serious bacterial infections, in your blood serum. It helps doctors monitor your drug levels to ensure safe and effective treatment.
["Gentamicin levels help prevent harmful side effects from too much of the drug in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50630-3
- Short code
- Gentamicin Islt SlowMyco
- Synonyms
- Gentamicin Islt SlowMyco
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- method-for-slow-growing-mycobacteria
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you’re taking gentamicin for an infection, particularly one caused by bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics. It’s often done during the first few days of treatment to check how your body is responding and to adjust your dose if needed. This helps avoid overuse, which can lead to kidney damage or other complications.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding issues, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are used to determine whether your gentamicin levels are within a safe range. Too little may mean the infection isn’t fully treated, while too much can cause side effects. Your doctor will discuss these results with you and may adjust your medication if needed.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
While rare, high gentamicin levels can cause side effects like hearing loss, kidney problems, or nausea. Your doctor will carefully monitor your levels to minimize these risks. Always follow their instructions for taking the medication.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Gentamicin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I expect this test?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy