Augmentin
An antibiotic used to treat and clear various mild to severe bacterial infections.What is Augmentin?
Augmentin is a “Prescription Only Medicine” widely used to manage infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
Unlike standard penicillin antibiotics, it combines a beta-lactam antibiotic with a beta-lactamase inhibitor. It is synthesised through a precise pharmaceutical process to ensure the stability of both active ingredients, allowing the medication to resist the action of destructive enzymes produced by certain bacteria.
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Medicine Name | Augmentin |
| Also Known As | Co-amoxiclav |
| What It Does | Clears bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, and middle ear. |
| Active Ingredient | Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid. |
| How It Works | Amoxicillin acts against the bacteria, while clavulanic acid stops the bacteria from breaking down the amoxicillin. |
| How to Take It | Taken orally. |
| Forms Available | Tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid suspensions. |
| Typical Dosage | Adults usually take 500 mg every 12 hours for 5 to 14 days. Paediatric doses are strictly calculated by body weight. |
| Suitable For | Adults, the elderly, children, and infants with proper dosage adjustments. |
| Not Suitable For | People allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins, or those with a history of liver dysfunction. |
Generic Names
- Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium: The universally recognised standard chemical name used globally.
- Co-amoxiclav: The common generic abbreviation widely used in regions such as the United Kingdom and Hong Kong.
Global Brand Names
This active ingredient combination is distributed globally under several prominent brand names.
- Augmentin: The most famous original brand name used widely across international markets.
- Clavamox: A recognised brand name commonly distributed in specific international markets.
- Curam: Another prominent brand alternative available globally.
These names all refer to the same medication. It’s important to note that while the active ingredient is the same, different countries may have different regulations and available medication formulations.
What is Augmentin used for?
Augmentin is used to relieve:
- Respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis.
- Urinary tract infections.
- Skin and soft tissue infections.
- Sinusitis.
- Otitis media, commonly known as middle ear infections.
How do you use Augmentin?
Availability
- Oral tablets.
- Chewable tablets.
- Oral suspension (liquid).
Dosage Information
- Adults and Children (40 kg or more): Take one 500 mg tablet every 12 hours or one 250 mg tablet every 8 hours for mild to moderate infections; for severe infections, take one 875 mg tablet every 12 hours or one 500 mg tablet every 8 hours.
- Children (Under 40 kg): Administer 20 to 40 mg of amoxicillin per kilogram of body weight daily, divided into two or three doses based on severity.
- Infants (2 Months and Younger): Administer 30 mg of amoxicillin per kilogram of body weight daily, divided into two doses.
Suitability
- Adults and Elderly: Yes, suitable with standard dosing guidelines.
- Children and Infants: Yes, suitable when doses are strictly calculated by body weight.
- Pregnant Women: Yes, classified as FDA Category B, but must only be used when clearly needed after consulting a healthcare provider.
- Lactating Women: Yes, generally considered safe, but consultation with a healthcare provider is required.
Who cannot take Augmentin?
- Individuals with a severe allergy to penicillins or cephalosporins.
- Individuals who have previously experienced liver dysfunction or jaundice related to Augmentin usage.
Common side effects of Augmentin typically involve the gastrointestinal system, including diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. Less frequently, patients may experience skin rashes, itching, or candidiasis (yeast infections).
It is critical to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course, as misuse or early termination can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Seek medical attention if severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction are experienced.
Allergies and Unsuitability
Unsuitable for individuals allergic to penicillin or beta-lactam antibiotics.
Warnings and Precautions
- Take with meals to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset.
- Maintain adequate fluid intake to reduce the risk of crystalluria.
- Complete the full 5 to 14-day course to prevent the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Interactions and Contraindications
- Check with a doctor if taking anticoagulants, methotrexate, or allopurinol, as they may interact dangerously.
- Separate probiotics by taking them two hours before or after the antibiotic dose.
Conditions Where the Drug Should Not Be Used
- Active liver dysfunction.
- History of amoxicillin-clavulanate-associated cholestatic jaundice.
- Known allergy to penicillins or cephalosporins.
Storage Information
- Keep tablets at room temperature, strictly away from moisture and heat.
- Use foil-packaged tablets within 14 days after opening, or as directed by the specific brand.
- Store unconstituted powder at room temperature.
- Keep the reconstituted liquid suspension in the fridge and discard it after 7 days.
Handling Instructions
- Shake the oral suspension well before each use.
- Use the dosing syringe or dose-measuring device provided with the medication for an accurate liquid dose.
Where is Augmentin available in Hong Kong?
Augmentin is classified as a “Prescription Only Medicine” in Hong Kong. This means that a patient must present a valid doctor’s prescription to purchase it.
Patients can legally obtain this medication at registered pharmacies and dispensaries displaying an “Rx” logo, provided they have a prescription from a registered healthcare professional.
Is Augmentin the same as Amoxicillin?
No, Augmentin is not the same as standard amoxicillin. It is a combination antibiotic that contains both amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. The addition of clavulanic acid prevents certain bacteria from breaking down the amoxicillin, making the medication effective against a wider range of infections.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Augmentin?
It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Augmentin. Combining the two can worsen common gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting. Consult a healthcare professional before mixing alcohol with prescription medications to prevent unnecessary liver strain.
Does Augmentin cause diarrhoea?
Yes, diarrhoea is a common side effect of Augmentin. Taking the medication with meals can help reduce stomach upset. If diarrhoea becomes severe or persistent, consult a healthcare provider for further assessment.
Does Augmentin make you tired or sleepy?
No, Augmentin does not directly cause tiredness or sleepiness. If you feel fatigued while taking this medication, it is typically your body’s natural immune response working to fight off the underlying bacterial infection.
When is the best time to take Augmentin?
The best time to take Augmentin is with a meal or a snack. Taking the medication after food helps alleviate common gastrointestinal issues such as stomach upset and nausea.
What should be avoided when taking Augmentin?
Avoid taking Augmentin alongside anticoagulants, methotrexate, or allopurinol without prior medical assessment. If you take probiotics, separate them by at least two hours from your antibiotic dose so they do not interfere with absorption.
Do you need to avoid dairy when taking Augmentin?
No, you do not need to avoid dairy products when taking Augmentin. Unlike some other classes of antibiotics, its absorption is not significantly hindered by calcium-rich foods like milk or cheese.