Augmentin

Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Clavulanate potassium is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that helps prevent certain bacteria from becoming resistant to amoxicillin.

Augmentin is commonly prescribed to treat infections such as:

1. Respiratory tract infections: Including sinusitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
2. Ear infections: Such as otitis media (middle ear infection).
3. Urinary tract infections: Including cystitis (bladder infection) and pyelonephritis (kidney infection).
4. Skin and soft tissue infections: Such as cellulitis and impetigo.
5. Dental infections: Including dental abscesses.

Augmentin is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and oral suspension.

It is important to take Augmentin as prescribed and complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication prematurely can allow the bacteria to regrow, leading to a relapse of the infection.

How to use

Here are general guidelines for using Augmentin:

1. Take as directed: Take medicament exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dosage or duration of treatment unless instructed to do so.
2. Follow the recommended dosage: The dosage of Augmentin will depend on the specific infection being treated, the severity of the infection, and individual factors. Take the prescribed amount of Augmentin at the recommended intervals.
3. Take with or without food: Augmentin can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
4. Swallow the tablets whole: If you are prescribed tablets, swallow them whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.
5. Shake the suspension: If you are prescribed oral suspension, shake the bottle well before each use to ensure proper mixing of the medication.
6. Measure the oral suspension accurately: Use the provided measuring device (such as a dosing syringe or spoon) to measure the prescribed amount of Augmentin oral suspension. Do not use a household spoon, as it may not provide accurate measurements.
7. Complete the full course: It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to incomplete eradication of the infection and increase the risk of antibiotic resistance.
8. Store properly: Follow the storage instructions provided on the medication packaging. Typically, Augmentin should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Dosage

The dosage of Augmentin can vary depending on the type of infection being treated, its severity, and individual factors. The following dosage information is a general guideline:

Tablets:

• The usual adult dosage is one tablet (containing a specific strength of amoxicillin and clavulanate) every 8 or 12 hours.
• The specific dosage and frequency will depend on the type and severity of the infection.

Chewable tablets:

• The dosage for children is based on their weight.
• The tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.

Oral suspension:

• The dosage for oral suspension is based on the weight of the individual, especially for children.
• The suspension should be shaken well before each use.
• Use the provided measuring device (such as a dosing syringe or spoon) to measure the prescribed amount accurately.

Side effects

Augmentin may cause certain side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects can include:

1. Gastrointestinal effects: These may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and indigestion. Taking Augmentin with food can help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
2. Skin reactions: Some individuals may experience skin rashes, itching, hives, or dermatitis while taking Augmentin.
3. Candidiasis (yeast infection): Medicament can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body, leading to an overgrowth of yeast. This can result in oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections.
4. Headache: Headaches are a possible side effect of Augmentin use.
5. Allergic reactions: In rare cases, Augmentin can cause severe allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or a rash accompanied by fever.
6. Liver problems: Drug can rarely cause liver-related side effects, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, pale stools, or abdominal pain.
7. Blood disorders: In rare instances, Augmentin can affect blood cells and lead to conditions like leukopenia (low white blood cell count), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), or anemia (low red blood cell count).

These are not all the possible side effects of Augmentin. Some individuals may experience other side effects.

If you experience severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

Storage

To properly store Augmentin, follow these guidelines:

1. Keep in a cool, dry place: Store medicament at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as the humidity can affect its stability.
2. Store in original packaging: Keep Augmentin in its original packaging or container with the lid tightly closed. This helps to protect it from air and moisture.
3. Do not freeze: Do not freeze medicine. Freezing can alter the effectiveness and stability of the medication.
4. Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store Augmentin in a location that is out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
5. Check expiration date: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Augmentin beyond that date. Expired medication may not be as effective and can potentially be harmful.

If you have any unused or expired Augmentin, do not flush it down the toilet or throw it in the trash.

Proper storage helps to maintain the effectiveness and safety of Augmentin.

It is important to note that these storage instructions are general guidelines. Different formulations of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate (such as tablets, chewable tablets, or oral suspension) may have specific storage requirements.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Augmentin or have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dosage, it is important to seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. An overdose of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate can be serious and potentially harmful.

Symptoms of an Augmentin overdose may include:

1. Severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
2. Abdominal pain or discomfort.
3. Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
4. Neurological symptoms like confusion, dizziness, or seizures.
5. Changes in urine output or dark-colored urine.

While waiting for medical assistance, do not induce vomiting. Stay hydrated by drinking water if possible.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Augmentin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

It is important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of the medication. If you frequently forget to take your doses or have difficulty remembering, it may be helpful to set reminders or establish a routine to help you remember to take Augmentin as prescribed.

Do not stop or alter the prescribed course of Augmentin, even if you have missed a dose. Completing the full course of treatment is important to fully eradicate the infection and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.