Amikacin - Serum
Amikacin is used to treat severe bacterial infections. The other commonly prescribed aminoglycoside antibiotics includes tobramycin and gentamicin. Amikacin serum test monitors the level of amikacin – an aminoglycoside antibiotic in the serum; the purpose of the test is to make sure that the drug is in an adequate amount to treat the infection, but not so elevated to induce any adverse reactions or toxicity.
Why is the test performed?
The test may be recommended by the doctor to determine the rate at which the drug is being cleared from the blood – and then, use this result to determine the appropriate dose and timing of the doses to ensure that the concentration of the drug in the blood is adequate to treat the infection – but not very high to induce toxicity. The test may also be ordered to measure the concentration of the drug when the drug is given as pulse dosing or extended interval dosing (24 to 48-hour interval). In such cases, a sample of the drug is taken after 6 to 14 hours to measure the drug levels.
When is the test ordered?
A physician makes a decision pertaining to drug testing based on several factors, such as an individual's overall health, age, kidney function, symptoms of toxicity if any, and presence of underlying conditions.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is collected from the arm.
How to prepare for the test?
There is no preparation required for the test, but blood samples should be collected according to the instructions given by the physician.
