Augmentin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Its active ingredients are amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. It is also known as co-amoxiclav. This medicine works by stopping the growth of bacteria that cause various infections.
A pack of Augmentin can cost anywhere between £0.8 and £3.54. The exact price depends on pack measurements and active ingredient density (10 or 360 mg).
Augmentin contains two active ingredients: amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor, which prevents certain bacteria from becoming resistant to amoxicillin.
Augmentin is available in several forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and powder for oral suspension. Common dosages include 250 mg/125 mg, 500 mg/125 mg, and 875 mg/125 mg tablets. The choice of formulation depends on the patient’s age, weight, and the severity of the infection.
Amoxicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death. Clavulanic acid binds to beta-lactamase enzymes produced by resistant bacteria, inactivating them, and allowing amoxicillin to work effectively against these bacteria.
Augmentin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. These include infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract infections, skin infections, sinusitis, and community-acquired pneumonia. Augmentin may also be prescribed for infections that are suspected to be caused by beta-lactamase producing bacteria.
Augmentin should be taken with food to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. The powder for oral suspension should be shaken well before each use and measured with an appropriate dosing syringe or measuring cup.
Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal impairment. Patients with severe renal impairment should use Augmentin with caution and under medical supervision. Children and elderly patients may require different dosages or formulations based on their specific needs.
Concomitant use of Augmentin with anticoagulants like warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding. Combining Augmentin with methotrexate can increase methotrexate toxicity. Probenecid may decrease the excretion of amoxicillin, leading to higher serum levels.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less common side effects may include rash, itching, and liver enzyme elevations. Serious side effects such as anaphylaxis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome are rare but require immediate medical attention.
Tablets should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container. The reconstituted oral suspension should be refrigerated and used within 10 days. Powder for suspension should be stored at room temperature prior to reconstitution.
Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, clavulanic acid, or other beta-lactam antibiotics should not use Augmentin. It should not be used in patients with a history of jaundice or hepatic dysfunction associated with previous treatments with Augmentin.
Patients on long-term therapy should have periodic assessments of renal, hepatic, and hematologic functions. Monitoring for signs of an allergic reaction, especially after the first dose, is essential. Stool examination may be required to monitor for signs of antibiotic-associated colitis.