Augmentin

What is Augmentin used for?

Augmentin is a combination of amoxicillin (a penicillin-class antibiotic) and clavulanic acid. Clavulanic acid inhibits bacterial beta-lactamase enzymes, protecting amoxicillin from breakdown and extending its effectiveness against bacteria that would otherwise be resistant to amoxicillin alone. It is commonly used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, ear/nose/throat, urinary tract, skin and bone/joints.

How to take Augmentin and adjust the dose

Adult dosing varies by infection type and severity — typically 375mg or 625mg every 8 hours, or 1g every 12 hours, as prescribed by a doctor; do not adjust the dose yourself. Paediatric dosing is weight-based (e.g. for otitis media in ages 12-17: 250/125mg three times daily for 5-7 days, or 500/125mg three times daily). Take at the start of a meal to improve absorption and reduce GI upset. Always complete the full course even if symptoms improve early, to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. This is general guidance only — follow your doctor's actual prescription.

Augmentin side effects

• Common: diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, bloating, indigestion, headache, rash
• Serious (less common): severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), bloody or persistent diarrhoea (pseudomembranous colitis), reversible hepatitis, easy bruising/bleeding (low platelets/red cells), seizures (rare, mostly with high doses in renal impairment), oral or vaginal candidiasis

Who should not take Augmentin?

• Allergy to penicillins or cephalosporins
• History of liver dysfunction or jaundice associated with amoxicillin/clavulanate
• Severe renal impairment (dose adjustment needed)
• Infectious mononucleosis (may trigger rash)
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding — consult a doctor
• May reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives — consider additional contraception during treatment