Netilmicin causes renal damage particularly in subjects who have been administered high doses over a long period of time, as well as in patients with pre-existing renal failure, in combination with nephrotoxic drugs, and in elderly subjects. Approximately 7 to 8% of the treated subjects experience an increase of the creatinine levels, proteinuria, cylindruria, etc. If netilmicin is discontinued promptly renal damages may be reversible.

Long-term treatment with high doses also entails the risk of irreversible inner ear lesions (imbalance, decreased hearing or deafness). According to many specialists, netilmicin is the aminoglycoside with the smallest nephrotoxic and ototoxic effect.

Cutaneous and systemic hypersensitive reactions, gastrointestinal pain, and an increase of liver enzymes are rare.

Netilmicin: Interactions

Concomitant cephalosporins increase nephrotoxicity; loop diuretics increase ototoxicity. In vitro inactivation with ß-lactam antibiotics is possible.

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