Gentamicin belongs to the family of medications called antibiotics. It is used to treat infections of the skin caused by certain bacteria. It is applied directly to the affected area, and works by blocking the metabolism of the bacteria, which kills them.

Your doctor may have suggested Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are using Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical), speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) without consulting your doctor.

Do not give Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) if their doctor has not prescribed it.

Before applying the medication, wash the area with mild soap and water and dry thoroughly. Gently apply a small amount of cream or ointment to the lesions 3 times daily until the affected area improves. Your doctor may instruct you to cover the area with a gauze dressing.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to use Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Use it for the full duration of prescribed treatment even if the area starts to look better. If you miss a dose of Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical), apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who uses Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical). If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people using Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical). Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• itching, redness, swelling, or other sign of irritation not present before use of Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical)

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical).

Do not use Ratio Gentamicin Topical (Gentamicin-topical) if you are:

• allergic to gentamicin or any ingredients of the medication.

If you are applying additional medications to the area of the skin being treated, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the Nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.