What is this medication for?
This medication combination belongs to the group of antibiotic medications
known as penicillins. It is used for the treatment of infections caused
by certain bacteria. The two medications are used together to make the amoxicillin
more effective. It is most commonly used to treat infections of the sinus, ear,
lung, skin, and bladder.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the
ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this
with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to
your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Augmentin® is available as:
- chewable tablets
- 125 mg
- 200 mg
- 250 mg
- 400 mg
- powder for oral suspension
- 125 mg/5 mL
- 200 mg/5 mL
- 250 mg/5 mL
- 400 mg/5 mL
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of amoxicillin - clavulanate depends on the infection
being treated. Recommended doses include 250 mg every 8 hours, 500 mg
every 8 or 12 hours, or 875 mg every 12 hours. The medication may be
taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce side effects
such as upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. The children's
dose of amoxicillin - clavulanate is based on body weight as prescribed by the
doctor.
Amoxicillin - clavulanate is usually taken for a period of 7 to 10 days. In
some instances, it may be necessary to take this medication for a longer period.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
To avoid antibiotic resistance, it is very important to take this medication
exactly as prescribed by the doctor, for the full duration of treatment, even
though you may feel better before the medication is finished. If you miss a
dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule.
If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on
with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.
Store the tablets, chewable tablets, and dry powder for oral suspension at
room temperature (at or below 77°F). Refrigerate the liquid and discard
after 10 days. Keep out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
This medication should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to amoxicillin, penicillins, cephalosporins, or clavulanate
- has mononucleosis
- has had jaundice or liver problems with previous use of this medication
