What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're currently taking the antibiotic gentamicin and need to make sure the amount in your blood is safe and effective. It helps check that the drug hasn't built up to a level that could harm your kidneys or hearing, while confirming it's still strong enough to fight the infection. It's typically used for people on this medication for serious infections who need ongoing monitoring.

What happens after I get my results?

Your gentamicin trough level will appear in your account along with the normal reference range so you can see exactly where your result falls. If your level is too high, next steps usually involve timing adjustments to your medication dosing and closer monitoring, and if it's dangerously high you should seek medical care right away. A downloadable lab report is available in your account, and you can use the trends feature to track your levels across multiple tests if you're being monitored over time.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone currently receiving gentamicin, especially through an IV for a serious bacterial infection, should consider this test. It's especially important for people on longer courses of treatment, those with existing kidney concerns, or anyone whose dose was recently adjusted. Regular monitoring helps catch problems early before they become serious.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Signs like ringing in the ears, dizziness, hearing changes, decreased urination, or swelling while on gentamicin can signal the drug level may be off. Feeling unusually tired or noticing your infection isn't improving can also be reasons to check your level. If you experience severe symptoms like sudden hearing loss or very little urine output, seek medical care immediately.

What is gentamicin and why does it matter?

Gentamicin is a powerful antibiotic used to fight serious bacterial infections like those caused by Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, and Staphylococcus. Because the difference between a helpful dose and a harmful one is small, keeping levels in a safe range matters a lot. Too little won't clear the infection, while too much can damage your kidneys or hearing.

What does high gentamicin mean?

A high trough level means the drug is building up in your body faster than it's being cleared, which raises the risk of kidney and hearing damage. This can happen if the dose is too high, if doses are given too close together, or if your kidneys aren't clearing the drug efficiently. Staying well hydrated and getting levels rechecked promptly can help, but a high result should prompt quick attention.

What causes high or low gentamicin levels?

High levels are often caused by reduced kidney function, dehydration, or a dose that's too high for your body weight. Low levels can happen if doses are missed, given too far apart, or if your body is clearing the drug unusually fast. Staying consistent with your dosing schedule and drinking enough water can help keep levels stable between tests.

How often should I retest?

Gentamicin levels are typically rechecked every few days during treatment, especially if your dose changes or treatment continues for more than a few days. People with kidney concerns or older adults may need more frequent monitoring. Follow the retesting schedule provided with your treatment plan for the most accurate guidance.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your level is outside the normal range, don't make changes to your medication on your own. Instead, note the result, stay hydrated, and get retested as recommended to see if the trend continues. If you notice symptoms like reduced urination, hearing changes, or severe dizziness, seek medical care right away.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days. Since gentamicin monitoring is often time-sensitive, check your account regularly so you can act quickly if a dose adjustment or retest is needed.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Gentamicin Trough Test - Antibiotic Level Monitoring

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]