Why Augmentin is prescribed (Indications):
This medication is a combination of ß-lactam antibiotic, and a ß-lactamase inhibitor (potassium clavulanate) prescribed to treat infections of the ears, lungs, sinus, skin, and urinary tract.
This results in an increased spectrum of action and restored efficacy against amoxicillin-resistant bacteria that produce ß-lactamase.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): Penicillin allergy.
Indications:
Augmentin is indicated for the treatment of the following infections in adults and children
* Acute bacterial sinusitis (adequately diagnosed)
* Acute otitis media
* Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (adequately diagnosed)
* Community acquired pneumonia
* Cystitis
* Pyelonephritis
* Skin and soft tissue infections in particular cellulitis, animal bites, severe dental abscess with spreading cellulitis.
* Bone and joint infections, in particular osteomyelitis.
Consideration should be given to official guidance on the appropriate use of antibacterial agents.
Category B : Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.
Dosage & When it is to be taken :
Recommended adult doses are 500 mg every 8-12 hours, 250 mg every 8 hours, 875 mg every 12 hours or 2000 mg every 12 hours.
Pediatric patients weighing more than 40 kg should receive adult doses. Pediatric patients weighing less than 40 kg should receive 20 to 45 mg/kg every 8 or 12 hours.
Adult: Dosage is based on amoxicillin dose.
How it should be taken:
It comes as a capsule, tablet or syrup to take by mouth with or without food. It also comes as solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions:
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of allergy, diabetes, infectious mononucleosis, diarrhea, severe kidney and liver impairment, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* This medication may decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Plan to use another form of birth control while on amoxicillin and clavulanic acid.
* Patient may develop with severe life threatening allergic reactions, if it so contact your doctor immediately.
Side Effects : Nausea, vomiting, bloody or prolonged diarrhea, indigestion, abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, mild skin rash, hives, easy bruising or bleeding, reversible hepatitis, difficulty breathing or swallowing, wheezing, vaginal itching and discharge and super infection.
Other Precautions: *Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions: Oral: Tablets and dry powder should be stored at room temperature 25 C and in airtight container.
Liquid should be refrigerated, do not freeze it. Diluted powder should be refrigerated and discarded after 10 days. Keep away from children.