Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium)
Augmentin is a combination of antibiotic drugs such as amoxicillin & clavulanate potassium used for the treatment of bacterial infections of the air such as sinus and pneumonia. It is available in an extra strong formulation with the name Augmentin ES and an extended release formulation Augmentin XR. In this medication, Amoxicillin works as a penicillin antibiotic by killing bacteria through blockage of the production of the chemical, the germs need, for building cell walls. Clavulanate works by releasing a chemical which helps antibiotics in overcoming the antibiotic resistance of the bacteria.
Dosage
The appropriate dosage of Augmentin can vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the patient's age, weight, and overall health.
Augmentin is available in different strengths, typically containing a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. The dosage is usually expressed as the amount of amoxicillin present in the medication.
The recommended dosage for adults and children weighing more than 40 kg (88 lbs) is typically:
- Standard dose: 250 mg to 500 mg of amoxicillin every 8 hours, or 500 mg to 875 mg every 12 hours.
For children, the dosage is often based on their body weight. The usual recommended dosage for children is:
- 20 mg to 45 mg of amoxicillin per kg of body weight divided into two or three doses per day.
It's important to note that these are general dosage guidelines, and the actual dosage prescribed by a healthcare professional may vary based on individual factors.
Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist regarding the specific dosage of Augmentin for your condition. They will consider factors such as the severity of the infection, your medical history, and any other medications you may be taking to determine the appropriate dosage for you.
Composition of Augmentin
Augmentin, an oral antibacterial medication consists of amoxicillin & beta-lactamase inhibitor, the clavulanate potassium. Amoxicillin which is an analogueto ampicillin, does a broad scale of bactericidal action against several Gram-negative microorganisms and Gram-positive.
The Inactive Ingredients in Augmentic tablets include microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate , hypromellose, magnesium stearate, Colloidal silicon dioxide, polyethylene glycol and titanium dioxide. The Inactive Ingredients in Augmentic Powder include Colloidal silicon dioxide, xanthan gum, flavorings, hypromellose, silicon dioxide, mannitol, silica gel & succinic acid. The inactive ingredients in AugmenticChewable Tablets include Colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, mannitol, flavorings, D&C Yellow number 10, glycine, sodium saccharin, FD&C Red number 40, &aspartame.
Uses
Augmentin, a penicillin antibiotic contains a combination of amoxicillin & clavulanate potassium where clavulanate potassium fights bacteria offering resistance to penicillins& other antibiotics and augmentin is used for the treatment of infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, ear infections, sinusitis, UTI & skin infections.
Side effects
The side effects of Augmentin are:
- difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the throat, face, tongue or lips
- Skin rashes
- fever
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- paling or yellowing of skin
- dark colored urine
- Hives
- weakness
- bleeding
- Severe tingling
- Loss of appetite
- Pain and muscle weakness
- Agitation
- Numbness
- Confusion
- Itching
- Clay-coloured stools
- Severe skin reaction
- stomach pain
- Red rashes on the skin
- white patches in the mouth
- Nausea
- vaginal yeast infection
Contraindications
Augmentin should not be used if one is allergic to clavulanate potassium or amoxicillin or if onehas liver problems. Also, this medication should not be used if one is allergic to Amoxin,Dispermox, Moxatag, ampicillin like Principen&Unasyn, dicloxacillinlike Dycill or Dynapen, oxacillin like Bactocill, or penicillin like Bicillin L-A.
Pregnancy and Augmentin
Augmentin is an FDA category B medicine which is not harmful to an unborn baby. However, it is advisable to inform the doctor about Augmentin if one is pregnant or plans to get pregnant. Augmentin may pass into breast milk causing harm to the nursing baby.
Some frequently asked questions about Clavulanate Potassium
What is clavulanate potassium?
Clavulanate potassium is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that is often combined with amoxicillin in medications like Augmentin. It helps to enhance the effectiveness of amoxicillin by preventing the destruction of the antibiotic by certain bacteria that produce beta-lactamase enzymes.
How does clavulanate potassium work?
Clavulanate potassium works by inhibiting the action of beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria. Beta-lactamase enzymes are capable of breaking down certain antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, rendering them ineffective. By inhibiting this enzyme, clavulanate potassium helps to protect amoxicillin from degradation, allowing it to effectively kill the bacteria causing the infection.
What types of infections are treated with clavulanate potassium?
Clavulanate potassium is used in combination with amoxicillin to treat various bacterial infections. This includes respiratory tract infections, sinus infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain types of dental infections, among others. It is important to note that clavulanate potassium is only effective against bacterial infections and does not treat viral infections.
What are the common side effects of clavulanate potassium?
Common side effects of clavulanate potassium include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin rash. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience severe or persistent side effects.
Can clavulanate potassium interact with other medications?
Clavulanate potassium may interact with certain medications, including other antibiotics, anticoagulants (blood thinners), and medications metabolized by the liver. It is essential to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to prevent any potential interactions.
Can anyone take clavulanate potassium?
Clavulanate potassium is generally safe for most people, but it may not be suitable for individuals with specific medical conditions or allergies. It is important to inform your doctor about your complete medical history and any known allergies before taking clavulanate potassium.
Remember, the information provided here is for general knowledge and should not replace medical advice. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance regarding your specific situation.
- Download in PDF » Augmentin: Product Information
