Augmentin (Generic)
Augmentin (Amoxicillin & Clavulanate Potassium) is an antibiotic in the class of drugs called penicillins that fights bacteria in your body to treat many different types of infections, such as tonsillitis, pneumonia, ear infections, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, and infections of the skin. Amoxicillin is in a class of medications called penicillin-like antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Clavulanic acid is in a class of medications called beta-lactamase inhibitors. It works by preventing bacteria from destroying Amoxicillin.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much of the medication may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Hyperactivity
- Drowsiness
- Kidney damage.
If you happen to overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
How to take
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken with food or on an empty stomach. However, for better absorption of this medicine and to prevent upset stomach, this medicine is best taken with food. Take Augmentin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Stopping Augmentin too soon may cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.
Drug Precaution
Sometimes, antibiotics (including Augmentin) can cause yeast infections. Let your healthcare provider know if you develop a vaginal yeast infection or thrush (a yeast infection of the mouth) while taking the drug.
Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Augmentin. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Rashes or itching
- Vomiting.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Augmentin
Augmentin may react with the antigout medication probenecid, resulting in changes in blood levels. A reaction with another antigout drug, allopurinol, may cause a rash. Notify your doctor if you are taking either of these drugs.
Like many antibiotics, Augmentin may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. You may want to take additional measures while taking Augmentin.
STORAGE:
Tablets should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container. The oral suspension should be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly closed container.
