Effect of gentamicin on serum digoxin level in patients with congestive heart failure.

Abstract

Gentamicin is frequently used to treat infectious diseases in patients receiving digitalis therapy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of gentamicin on serum digoxin level. Twenty-four diabetic patients and patients with congestive heart failure and twelve normal healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. The patients received digoxin treatment 0.25 mg/day. Gentamicin in a dose of 80 mg i.m. twice a day for 7 days was prescribed for these patients to treat chest infection. Serum digoxin and creatinine levels were determined before and after gentamicin administration. Gentamicin induced a significant increase in serum digoxin level of diabetic patients and patients with congestive heart failure. Serum creatinine level increased significantly before and after i.m. injection of gentamicin. The present study indicated that increase serum digoxin level when combined with gentamicin should be considered a risk factor for digitalis toxicity.