Augmentin

Oral Antibiotics

Drug class: β-Lactam Antibiotics, combines amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium.

Augmentin（中文：安美汀）

Common Strengths of Augmentin

• Oral Tablets:
  • Augmentin Tablet 375 mg contains 250 mg amoxicillin + 125 mg clavulanic acid (as potassium clavulanate)
  • Augmentin Tablet 625 mg contains 500 mg amoxicillin + 125 mg clavulanic acid (as potassium clavulanate)
  • Augmentin Tablet 1 G contains 875 mg amoxicillin + 125 mg clavulanic acid (as potassium clavulanate)
• Oral Suspension:
  • 125 mg amoxicillin/ 31.25 mg clavulanate per 5 mL
  • 400 mg amoxicillin/ 57 mg clavulanate per 5 mL

Drug Usage

Augmentin is used to treat various bacterial infections, including:

• Sinusitis
• Pneumonia
• Ear infections
• Bronchitis
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections

Mechanism of Action

Augmentin works by combining amoxicillin, a penicillin antibiotic that inhibits cell wall synthesis, with clavulanate potassium beta-lactamase enzymes that can render amoxicillin ineffective. This combination broadens the spectrum of bacteria that can be treated.

Route of Administration

Oral

Dosages

The dosage of Augmentin varies based on the patient's age, weight, the severity of the infection, and renal function. Below are the recommended dosages:

• Adults and Children Weighing 40 kg or More
  • Mild to Moderate Infections:
    • 625 mg every 12 hours or
    • 375 mg every 8 hours
  • Severe Infections:
    • 1 G every 12 hours or
    • 625 mg every 8 hours
• Maximum Daily Dose:
  • Should not exceed 3000 mg of amoxicillin/375 mg of clavulanate per day, divided into 3 doses.
• Renal Impairment Adjustments
  • GFR 10-30 mL/min: 625 mg or 375 mg every 12 hours, depending on infection severity.
  • GFR Less than 10 mL/min: 625 mg or 375 mg every 24 hours, depending on infection severity.

Side Effects

Frequency	Adverse reactions
Common Side Effects	Diarrhea
	Nausea
	Vomiting
	Skin rash
	Vaginitis
Serious Side Effects	Allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
	Liver dysfunction (cholestatic jaundice)
	Clostridum difficile-associated diarrhea
	Stevens-Johnson syndrome (rare)

Pharmacokinetics

Metbolism and Excretion: The half-life of amoxicillin aftert oral administration of Augmentin is approximately 1.3 hours, while that of clavulanic acid is around 1 hour.

Approximately 50-70% of amoxicillin and 25-40% of clavulanic acid are excreted unchanged in urine during the first 6 hours after administration.

• Onset of Action: Augmentin begins to work soon after administration, with most patients noticing improvement within 2 days.

Drug Precautions

Pregnancy

Generally considered safe but should only be used if necessary, as risk versus benefits should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Breastfeeding

Small amounts may pass into breast milk; generally considered safe, but monitoring for side effects in the infant is advised.

Children and Elderly

Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on age, weight, and renal function.

Monitoring Requirements

Liver function tests, renal function tests, and monitoring for signs of allergic reactions or severe gastrointestinal side effects.

Drug Interactions

Augmentin may reduce the effectiveness of certain hormonal contraceptives. Patients should discuss alternative birth control methods with thier healthcare provider.

FAQ

How Should I Take the Tablet?

Take Augmentin exactly as prescribed, preferably at the start of a meal. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets.

What Should I Avoid While Taking?

Avoid alcohol and inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking to prevent interactions. Additionally, discuss birth contorl methods as Augmentin may affect their efficacy.

'What Happens if I Miss a Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double up on doses.