What is Amoxicillin-clavulanate?
Amoxicillin-clavulanate, also known as Augmentin, is an antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial infections. It is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, which works together to broaden the spectrum of activity against certain bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics. The drug is commonly prescribed for skin and soft tissue infections, sinusitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia, among others. Amoxicillin-clavulanate is available in oral tablet and suspension forms, making it easily administered at home or in a healthcare setting.
What is Amoxicillin-clavulanate used for?
Amoxicillin-clavulanate, commonly known by the brand name Augmentin, is a broad-spectrum antibiotic combination medication. It consists of amoxicillin, an extended-spectrum penicillin antibiotic, and clavulanic acid, a beta-lactamase inhibitor. This synergy enhances the antibacterial efficacy of amoxicillin against bacteria that have developed resistance to penicillins through enzyme production.
The addition of clavulanic acid protects the susceptible portion of the amoxicillin molecule from destruction by beta-lactamases produced by certain bacterial species, thereby allowing the medication to effectively target and inhibit bacterial growth. As a result, Amoxicillin-clavulanate is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and E. coli, making it a first-line treatment for various respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and urinary tract infections.
Amoxicillin-clavulanate side effects
• Diarrhea • Vaginal candidiasis • Nausea • Abdominal pain or discomfort • Headache • Allergic reactions (rash, hives) • Blood disorders (anemia, low platelet count) • Elevated liver enzymes • Increased levels of certain blood sugars • Changes in taste • Photosensitivity • Muscle weakness • Confusion • Seizure • Stevens-Johnson syndrome • Toxic epidermal necrolysis
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