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Augmentin

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Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) is a combination antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory, urinary tract, and skin infections. The addition of clavulanate prevents bacteria from breaking down the amoxicillin, making Augmentin effective against resistant strains. It provides a broad-spectrum approach to infection management.


Category
Availability
In Stock
Delivery Time
Airmail (14-21 days) | EMS trackable (5-9 days)
Product is shipped in a fully discreet envelope with no content disclosure, including all required documentation inside

Product Sheet

Active Ingredient(s)
Amoxicillin, Clavulanate
Reference Brand
Augmentin
Manufacturer
GlaxoSmithKline
Product Form
Tablet, Oral suspension, Injection
Regulatory Classification
Rx
Primary Category
Antibiotic
Product Category
Antiinfectives for systemic use, Beta-lactam antibacterials, Combinations of penicillins
Pharmacological Class
Penicillin with Beta-lactamase Inhibitor
Manufacturer Description
A combination antibiotic used when bacteria are likely to be resistant to plain amoxicillin.
Mechanism of Action
The amoxicillin part kills bacteria, while the clavulanate part protects amoxicillin from being destroyed by certain enzymes produced by resistant bacteria, making the antibiotic more powerful.
Route of Administration
Oral
Onset Time
1 hour
Duration
8-12 hours
Contraindications
Penicillin allergy, History of Augmentin-associated liver issues
Severe Adverse Events
Liver inflammation, Severe allergic reaction, Colitis
Common Side Effects
Loose stools, Nausea, Thrush
Uncommon Side Effects
Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Skin rash
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate, Warfarin, Allopurinol
Pregnancy Safety Warnings
Generally considered safe.
Age Restrictions
Suitable for infants, children, and adults.
Storage Guidelines
Keep tablets in original packaging; refrigerate liquid.
Related Products
Co-amoxiclav generic

Augmentin FAQ

Can I take Augmentin while on a dairy-free diet?

Yes. Augmentin tablets do not contain dairy ingredients, so a dairy-free diet does not affect absorption or efficacy.

What should I do if I develop a rash while on Augmentin?

A mild rash may be a common side effect, but any skin eruption that spreads, blisters, or is accompanied by fever should be reported promptly, as it could signal a severe allergic reaction.

Is it safe to travel internationally with Augmentin tablets?

Augmentin is a prescription-only medication in the UK. When traveling, carry the original prescription label, a copy of the prescription, and declare the medication at security if required.

How does Augmentin differ from plain amoxicillin?

Plain amoxicillin lacks clavulanate, so it is ineffective against bacteria that produce β-lactamase enzymes. Augmentin’s clavulanate component protects amoxicillin, broadening the spectrum to include β-lactamase-producing strains.

Can I take Augmentin with a proton-pump inhibitor (e.g., omeprazole)?

There is no known pharmacokinetic interaction between Augmentin and proton-pump inhibitors, so they can be co-administered.

Why does Augmentin sometimes cause dark urine?

Clavulanate can cause mild, reversible changes in urine colour due to metabolites. If the urine is dark and accompanied by other symptoms such as jaundice, seek medical advice.

Are there any special considerations for athletes taking Augmentin?

Augmentin is not listed on any prohibited substance tables for sport. However, athletes should be aware of the risk of gastrointestinal upset that might affect training performance.

What is the imprint on a 500/125 mg Augmentin tablet?

The 500 mg amoxicillin/125 mg clavulanate tablet is typically imprinted with “GL-500” on one side and “CLV-125” on the other, but markings can vary by batch.

Does Augmentin interact with over-the-counter antacids?

Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may slightly reduce the absorption of amoxicillin. To minimise this effect, space the dosing of antacids at least two hours apart from Augmentin.

How long can I keep leftover Augmentin tablets after a course ends?

Unused tablets should be discarded after the expiry date or within six months of opening the blister pack, whichever comes first. Do not store them beyond the recommended period for optimal potency.

What is Augmentin?

Augmentin is a prescription-only antibiotic (POM) marketed in the United Kingdom by GlaxoSmithKline. It combines two active ingredients - amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium - in a single oral pill. The medication belongs to the antibiotics therapeutic class and is available in the following strengths:

  • 250 mg amoxicillin / 125 mg clavulanate
  • 500 mg amoxicillin / 125 mg clavulanate
  • 750 mg amoxicillin / 250 mg clavulanate
  • 875 mg amoxicillin / 125 mg clavulanate

Augmentin is indicated for a range of bacterial infections and must be prescribed by a qualified prescriber in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.

How Augmentin Works in the Body

Augmentin’s antibacterial effect stems from the complementary actions of its two components:

  • Amoxicillin is a β-lactam antibiotic that binds to penicillin-binding proteins on the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting the final step of peptidoglycan synthesis. This weakens the wall and leads to bacterial lysis.
  • Clavulanate potassium is a β-lactamase inhibitor. Many bacteria produce β-lactamase enzymes that destroy amoxicillin before it can act. Clavulanate blocks these enzymes, protecting amoxicillin and extending its spectrum to β-lactamase-producing organisms.

Together, the combination achieves rapid bacterial killing and a broader range of activity than amoxicillin alone. Onset of action typically occurs within an hour after oral ingestion, with peak plasma concentrations reached in 1-2 hours. The drug’s half-life is about 1 hour for amoxicillin and 1.5 hours for clavulanate, requiring multiple daily doses to maintain effective levels.

Conditions Treated by Augmentin

Augmentin is approved by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for the following infections:

  • Acute otitis media and chronic suppurative otitis media
  • Sinusitis (including acute bacterial sinusitis)
  • Community-acquired pneumonia (moderate severity)
  • Lower respiratory tract infections such as acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
  • Skin and soft-tissue infections (e.g., cellulitis, animal bites)
  • Urinary tract infections caused by susceptible organisms
  • Dental infections (e.g., acute dento-alveolar abscess)

The medication is prescribed for adults and children over 12 years of age, with pediatric dosing adjusted by weight.

Evidence-Based Off-Label Uses

Some clinicians prescribe Augmentin for conditions not listed on the product licence, based on published evidence:

  • Prophylaxis of infective endocarditis in patients with certain cardiac conditions undergoing dental procedures. Current UK guidelines advise amoxicillin alone for most procedures; clavulanate offers no added benefit and is not recommended for routine prophylaxis.
  • Management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations where β-lactamase-producing bacteria are suspected. Evidence is limited to small observational studies; clinicians should follow local antibiotic stewardship policies.

Disclaimer: Off-label use requires careful risk-benefit assessment by a qualified healthcare provider and should not replace standard, approved therapy.

Evaluating Augmentin for Your Health Profile

Absolute Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to any penicillin, amoxicillin, clavulanate, or other β-lactam antibiotics
  • Prior severe hepatic reactions such as cholestatic jaundice or hepatitis linked to amoxicillin/clavulanate

Relative Contraindications

  • Moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min) - dose reduction required
  • Pregnancy (Category B) - generally considered safe, but use only if clearly indicated
  • Breastfeeding - amoxicillin is excreted in breast milk in low concentrations; benefits usually outweigh risks

Special Populations

  • Elderly patients may have reduced renal function; dosing should be individualized.
  • Patients with liver disease should be monitored for signs of cholestasis, especially during prolonged therapy.

Safety Profile and Interactions

Common Side Effects

  • Diarrhoea, which may be mild to moderate
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal discomfort or flatulence
  • Skin rash or mild urticaria

These effects are usually transient and can be mitigated by taking the medication with food.

Serious Adverse Events

  • Anaphylactic or severe allergic reactions (shortness of breath, swelling, hypotension) - seek emergency care
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis - rare but life-threatening skin reactions
  • Cholestatic hepatitis presenting with jaundice, dark urine, and pruritus - requires immediate discontinuation
  • Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhoea, which can be severe and requires medical attention

Drug Interactions

  • Oral contraceptives - Augmentin may reduce plasma hormone levels, decreasing contraceptive efficacy; additional non-hormonal contraception is advised.
  • Warfarin - clavulanate can potentiate anticoagulant effect, increasing INR; monitor coagulation parameters.
  • Methotrexate - co-administration may raise methotrexate concentrations, heightening toxicity; close monitoring required.
  • Allopurinol - concurrent use can increase risk of rash; consider alternative agents if possible.
  • Probenecid - decreases renal excretion of amoxicillin, leading to higher serum levels; dose adjustment may be needed.

Food and Lifestyle Interactions

  • Taking Augmentin with a meal improves gastrointestinal tolerance and enhances absorption of amoxicillin.
  • Alcohol does not interact pharmacologically, but excessive intake may exacerbate gastrointestinal upset.
  • No specific restrictions on driving, but severe dizziness or visual disturbances should be reported promptly.

How to Take Augmentin

Standard Dosing (Adults)

  • 500 mg/125 mg three times daily (every 8 hours) for most infections
  • 875 mg/125 mg twice daily (every 12 hours) for moderate-to-severe infections such as community-acquired pneumonia

The exact regimen depends on infection type, severity, and patient-specific factors.

Dose Adjustments

  • Renal impairment: Reduce dose or extend dosing interval according to creatinine clearance.
  • Hepatic impairment: Use the lowest effective dose; monitor liver function tests during prolonged therapy.

Administration Tips

  • Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water; do not crush or chew.
  • Taking the dose with food reduces the likelihood of diarrhoea and nausea.

Missed Dose

  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double-dose to catch up.

Overdose

  • Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
  • Management is primarily supportive; activated charcoal may be considered if presentation is early.

Discontinuation

  • Abrupt cessation is generally safe, but for infections requiring prolonged therapy, follow the prescriber’s guidance to avoid relapse.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Renal function: Assess serum creatinine before initiating therapy in patients with known kidney disease; repeat if treatment exceeds 7 days.
  • Liver enzymes: Baseline liver tests are advisable for patients with a history of hepatic disease; monitor if therapy extends beyond 10 days.
  • Clinical response: Patients should report persistent fever, worsening pain, or new diarrhoea within 48 hours of starting treatment.

Storage and Handling

  • Store tablets in their original blister pack at temperatures below 30 °C, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
  • Keep out of reach of children; child-proof containers are recommended.
  • Do not use tablets after the expiry date printed on the package; discard safely according to local pharmacy guidelines.

Medication-Specific Glossary

Beta-lactamase inhibitor
A substance that blocks bacterial enzymes (β-lactamases) that would otherwise destroy β-lactam antibiotics, thereby extending their antibacterial spectrum.
Cholestatic hepatitis
An inflammation of the liver that impairs bile flow, potentially leading to jaundice and elevated liver enzymes; a rare but serious side effect of amoxicillin/clavulanate.
Clostridioides difficile infection
A potentially severe colitis caused by overgrowth of C. difficile bacteria, often triggered by disruption of normal gut flora during antibiotic therapy.
Pharmacokinetic
The study of how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted by the body; informs dosing intervals and adjustments.

Medical Disclaimer

This article provides educational information about Augmentin and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.

Information for Augmentin is sourced from established medical standards and updated frequently. It is provided for general guidance and should be confirmed with a healthcare professional before use.
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