Gentamicin is contraindicated in myasthenia gravis.
It can cause clinically significant muscle weakness in myasthenia patients resulting in respiratory depression. Amikacin, tobramycin, neomycin and streptomycin are also contraindicated.
Please see DGRI handbook page before prescribing any antibiotics in patients with myasthenia gravis.
A full list of antibiotics to avoid / use with caution in myasthenia patients is available from NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
Editorial Information
Last reviewed:
01/03/2024
Next review date:
01/03/2026
Author(s):
Dr Jon van Aartsen (Consultant Microbiologist).