Augmentin (Amoxicillin plus Clavulanic Acid)

Augmentin contains two drugs amoxicillin and clavulanic acid (in the form of clavulanate potassium). This combination makes Augmentin work against more types of bacteria than antibiotics containing amoxicillin alone.

Overview of Augmentin:

Augmentin is a combination antibiotic containing amoxicillin (a penicillin-class antibiotic) and clavulanic acid (a beta-lactamase inhibitor). It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis (via amoxicillin) and protecting amoxicillin from degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes (via clavulanic acid). It is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, suspensions, and intravenous formulations. Augmentin is commonly prescribed for infections caused by susceptible bacteria, particularly those resistant to amoxicillin alone.

Indications:

Augmentin is indicated for the treatment of the following infections caused by susceptible bacteria:

•  Respiratory tract infections: 

Sinusitis, otitis media, tonsillitis, bronchitis, and community-acquired pneumonia.

•  Urinary tract infections: 

Cystitis, pyelonephritis.

•  Skin and soft tissue infections: 

Cellulitis, animal bites, and wound infections.

•  Bone and joint infections: 

Osteomyelitis.

•  Other infections: 

Intra-abdominal infections, dental infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.
It is often used when resistance to amoxicillin is suspected or confirmed, particularly for infections caused by beta-lactamase-producing bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Escherichia coli.

Contraindications:

Augmentin should not be used in the following cases:

•  Hypersensitivity: 

Known allergy to penicillins, cephalosporins, or any component of Augmentin (amoxicillin or clavulanic acid).

•  History of severe allergic reactions: 

Anaphylaxis or severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome) to beta-lactam antibiotics.

•  Liver dysfunction associated with Augmentin: 

History of jaundice or hepatic impairment linked to prior use of Augmentin or amoxicillin-clavulanic acid.

•  Infectious mononucleosis: 

Use may increase the risk of skin rash.

•  Phenylketonuria (for certain formulations): 

Some oral suspensions contain aspartame, which is contraindicated in patients with this condition.

Side Effects:

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Gastrointestinal: 

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (more common in children), and abdominal discomfort.

•  Skin: 

Rash, itching, or hives.

•  Other: 

Candidiasis (yeast infection) of the skin or mucous membranes.

Less common but serious side effects (seek medical attention if experienced):

•  Allergic reactions:

 Anaphylaxis, angioedema, or severe skin reactions (e.g., erythema multiforme, toxic epidermal necrolysis).

•  Gastrointestinal: 

Severe diarrhea (possibly due to Clostridium difficile-associated colitis).

•  Hepatic: 

Hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, or elevated liver enzymes.

•  Hematologic: 

Rare cases of agranulocytosis, hemolytic anemia, or thrombocytopenia.

•  Renal: 

Interstitial nephritis or crystalluria (rare).

•  Neurologicals: 

Seizures (rare, usually with high doses or in patients with renal impairment).

Drug interactions:

Augmentin may interact with drugs like methotrexate (increased toxicity), oral anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk), or probenecid (prolonged amoxicillin levels).

Precautions:

Adjust dosage in renal impairment; monitor liver function in prolonged use.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

Generally considered safe (Category B), but consult a healthcare provider.