What is this medication for?
This medication combination belongs to the group of antibiotic medications known as penicillins. It is used to treat 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 those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Augmentin® is available as:
- tablets
- chewable tablets
- 125 mg
- 200 mg
- 250 mg
- 400 mg
- powder for oral suspension
- 125 mg per 5 mL
- 200 mg per 5 mL
- 250 mg per 5 mL
- 400 mg per 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, but the medication is usually taken every 8 hours at 250 mg, every 8 or 12 hours at 500 mg, or every 12 hours at 875 mg. Amoxicillin - clavulanate can 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. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
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. Protect the medication from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Amoxicillin - clavulanate should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to amoxicillin, penicillins, cephalosporins, clavulanate, or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- has mononucleosis
- has had jaundice or liver problems with previous use of this medication
