Gentamicin for Horses: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & More

Gentamicin is a powerful antibiotic widely used in equine medicine to treat serious bacterial infections. Whether you're a horse owner, trainer, or equine veterinarian, understanding how gentamicin works, when to use it, and what to watch for is essential for maintaining equine health.

In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about gentamicin for horses—from its uses and administration to safety and side effects.

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🐴 What is Gentamicin?

Gentamicin sulfate is a broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, making it effective against a wide range of gram-negative bacteria and some gram-positive organisms.

Gentamicin is commonly used in veterinary medicine, especially in large animals like horses, to treat infections that could otherwise become life-threatening.

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🩺 Common Uses of Gentamicin in Horses

Gentamicin is typically prescribed for:

Respiratory tract infections

Septicemia (blood infections)

Uterine infections (metritis or endometritis)

Wound infections

Joint and bone infections

Post-surgical infections

It is often used in combination with penicillin or other antibiotics to broaden the spectrum of bacterial coverage.

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💉 How is Gentamicin Administered?

Gentamicin for horses is usually administered by intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection. In some cases, it may be used intrauterine or topically, depending on the type and location of the infection.

📌 Typical Dosage for Horses

2.2 mg/kg body weight

Given once daily

Administered IV or IM

Dosage should always be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian, and treatment duration varies depending on the severity of the infection.

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⚠️ Side Effects and Precautions

While gentamicin is highly effective, it carries a risk of nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), especially with prolonged use or high doses.

Common Side Effects:

Kidney damage (most concerning)

Ototoxicity (hearing or balance issues, rare in horses)

Muscle irritation at the injection site

Safety Tips:

Always ensure adequate hydration during treatment

Avoid use in horses with pre-existing kidney disease

Monitor renal function (blood tests may be required)

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🧬 Gentamicin Resistance in Horses

Like all antibiotics, gentamicin should be used responsibly to avoid the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Misuse or overuse can reduce its effectiveness over time. Vets typically perform culture and sensitivity tests to confirm gentamicin is the right choice.

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🛑 When NOT to Use Gentamicin

In horses with renal insufficiency

Without veterinary supervision

For long-term use without regular kidney monitoring

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📦 Gentamicin Storage & Availability

Gentamicin is available in injectable solution and powder forms. Store in a cool, dry place away from light and out of reach of children and animals. It is a prescription-only medication, so you’ll need a valid veterinary prescription to purchase it legally.

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