Augmentin

Generic name:

Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid

Drug class:

Beta-lactam antibiotic (penicillin combination)

Dosage form:

Tablets (250/125 mg, 500/125 mg, 875/125 mg, 1000/62.5 mg), chewable tablets, extended-release tablets, oral suspension, powder for injection

Root of administration:

Oral; intravenous; intramuscular

Dose:

Adults: 250–875 mg amoxicillin component every 8–12 hours (with corresponding clavulanate); severe infections up to 2000/125 mg every 12 hours
Pediatrics: 20–45 mg/kg/day of the amoxicillin component divided every 8–12 hours; higher doses (up to 90 mg/kg/day) for serious infections
Special populations: Adjust in renal impairment; consult label

Mechanism of action:

Amoxicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding penicillin-binding proteins; clavulanic acid irreversibly inhibits β-lactamases, extending spectrum against resistant organisms.

Drug usage cases:

• Acute otitis media
• Sinusitis
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Bronchitis exacerbations
• Pharyngitis/tonsillitis
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Animal bite wounds
• Bone and joint infections
• Diabetic foot infections
• H. pylori eradication (with clarithromycin and antisecretory agent)
• Off-label: Lyme disease in children, septic abortion prophylaxis

Drug contra indications:

• History of hypersensitivity to penicillins or β-lactam antibiotics
• Previous cholestatic jaundice or hepatic dysfunction associated with Augmentin
• Mononucleosis (high risk of rash)
• Severe renal impairment without dose adjustment

Side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea, vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Rash, urticaria
• Hepatic transaminase elevations
• Cholestatic jaundice
• C. difficile–associated diarrhea
• Anemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia
• Hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis, angioedema)
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Seizures in high doses or renal impairment

Warnings:

• Serious hypersensitivity reactions; discontinue immediately if allergic symptoms occur
• Clostridium difficile–associated diarrhea can range from mild to fatal
• Use with caution in renal impairment; adjust dose to avoid toxicity
• Hepatic events, including cholestatic hepatitis; monitor liver function
• Severe cutaneous adverse reactions; discontinue if lesions develop
• Hematologic effects (hemolytic anemia, leukopenia); monitor blood counts for prolonged therapy
• Potential for seizure risk at high doses, especially in renal failure

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding:

Pregnancy: Category B. Animal studies have not demonstrated risk; limited human data show no increased malformation rate. Use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks.
Breastfeeding: Excreted in breast milk; small risk of gastrointestinal disturbance or sensitization. Monitor infant for diarrhea or rash. Breastfeeding may be continued with caution.