Amikacin, Gentamicin, Vancomycin, Teicoplanin and Linezolid are antibiotics with a narrow
therapeutic range, so the difference between first effective concentration and first toxic level
is very close. Above the first toxic concentration, side effects can occur, even leading to serious
consequences. Below first effective concentration, a selection of antibiotic-resistant bacteria
is promoted, and there is the risk of ineffective antibiotic treatment.
Moreover, the metabolism of these drugs can be very different among people, therefore
adjustment of drug dosage is necessary in order to obtain the optimal therapeutic effect.
For these reasons, it is highly suggested to monitor circulating therapeutic drug to avoid
adverse events and keep the therapeutic effect.