When should aminoglycoside peak levels be checked?

Checking aminoglycoside peak levels after the third dose is important for ensuring that the drug reaches therapeutic levels while minimizing the risk of toxicity. Aminoglycosides, which are used to treat serious infections caused by gram-negative bacteria, have a narrow therapeutic window. Monitoring peak levels specifically allows healthcare providers to assess whether the medication is effective without pushing the drug concentration into a toxic range.

By the time the third dose is administered, the patient has received enough of the drug for a stable pharmacokinetic profile to be established. This timing maximizes the reliability of the peak level reading. If the levels are too high, it indicates a risk of potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, while too low may imply inadequate therapeutic effects. Thus, obtaining peak levels at this point allows clinicians to adjust dosing regimens effectively for optimal treatment outcomes.