Augmentin

Generic name: Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium

What is Augmentin?

Augmentin is used in the treatment of lower respiratory, middle ear, sinus, skin, and urinary tract infections that are caused by certain specific bacteria. These bacteria produce a chemical enzyme called beta lactamase that makes some infections particularly difficult to treat.

Augmentin ES-600, a stronger, oral-suspension form of the drug, is prescribed for certain stubborn ear infections that previous treatment has failed to clear up in children two and under, or those attending day care.

Augmentin XR is an extended-release form of the drug used to treat pneumonia and sinus infections.

What is the most important information I should know about Augmentin?

If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Augmentin. You may be allergic to it, and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take the drug and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

Who should not take Augmentin?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to any penicillin medication, do not take this drug.

Also avoid taking Augmentin if it has ever given you liver problems or yellowing of the skin and eyes. Additionally, do not take Augmentin XR if you have severe kidney problems or need dialysis.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Augmentin?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Augmentin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a liver, kidney or blood disorder; or if you have diabetes.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual adult dose is one 500-milligram (mg) tablet every 12 hours or one 250-mg tablet every 8 hours. For more severe infections and infections of the respiratory tract, the dose should be one 875-mg tablet every 12 hours or one 500-mg tablet every 8 hours. It is essential that you take this medicine according to your doctor's directions.

The total daily dose of Augmentin XR is 4000 mg of amoxicillin and 250 mg of clavulanate potassium, given in divided doses every 12 hours for 10 days (for sinus infections) or for 7 to 10 days (for pneumonia).

Children older than 3 months: For middle ear infections, sinus inflammation, lower respiratory tract infections, and more severe infections, the usual dose of the 200- or 400-mg suspension is 45 mg per 2.2 pounds per day, in 2 doses, every 12 hours, and of the 125- or 250-mg suspension, 40 mg per 2.2 pounds per day, in 3 doses, every 8 hours.

For less severe infections, the usual dose is 25 mg of the 200- or 400-mg suspension for each 2.2 pounds of weight per day, divided into 2 doses, every 12 hours, or 20 mg of the 125- or 250-mg suspension per 2.2 pounds per day, divided into 3 doses, every 8 hours.

The usual dosage of Augmentin ES-600 oral suspension is 90 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, divided into 2 doses taken every 12 hours. Treatment lasts 10 days.

Children weighing 88 pounds or more will take the adult dosage of standard Augmentin.

Less than 3 months: Children in this age group take 30 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, divided into 2 doses and taken every 12 hours.

How should I take Augmentin?

Augmentin should be taken every 8 or 12 hours, depending on the dosage strength. It may be taken with or without food, but taking it with meals or snacks will help prevent stomach upset. However, the extended-release form, Augmentin XR, should always be taken with food to improve absorption.

Your doctor will only prescribe Augmentin to treat a bacterial infection; it will not cure a viral infection, such as the common cold. It's important to take the full dosage schedule of Augmentin, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Augmentin and similar antibiotics.

Shake the suspension well. Use a dosing spoon or medicine dropper to give a child the medication; rinse the spoon or dropper after each use.

What should I avoid while taking Augmentin?

To prevent bacterial resistance, avoid missing doses and not completing the full dosage schedule as your doctor has prescribed.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Augmentin?

If Augmentin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Augmentin with the following: allopurinol, birth control pills, and probenecid.

What are the possible side effects of Augmentin?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: diarrhea/loose stools, nausea, skin rashes and hives

Can I receive Augmentin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Augmentin during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Augmentin?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, and you take 2 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 5 to 6 hours later. If you take 3 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 2 to 4 hours later. Then go back to your regular schedule.

How should I store Augmentin?

Store the suspension under refrigeration and discard after 10 days. Store tablets away from heat, light, and moisture.