To test the hypotheses that the renal parenchymal accumulation kinetics of aminoglycosides can predict nephrotoxicity, we measured renal parenchymal concentrations in rats receiving gentamicin and tobramycin. In addition to comparing the drugs as single daily injections, we also examined the effect of multiple doses versus a single daily dose. Gentamicin accumulated to much greater concentrations in the kidney than did tobramycin. Gentamicin given twice daily accumulated more rapidly and to greater concentrations than did the same total dose given once daily. We conclude that aminoglycoside accumulation in the kidney depends on the drug and dose regimen. These differences may explain relative nephrotoxicities.
