Amoxicillin and clavulanic acid

Amoclan, Augmentin, Augmentin XR, Augmentin ES-600

Yes

Common side effects are:

• abdominal discomfort,
• bloating,
• diarrhea,
• gas,
• headache,
• heartburn,
• nausea, and
• vomiting.

Other important side effects include:

• bloody or prolonged diarrhea,
• easy bruising or bleeding,
• reversible hepatitis,
• rash, and
• allergic reactions.

Serious but rare reactions include seizures, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), and low platelet or red blood cell count. Antibiotics can alter the normal bacteria in the colon and encourage overgrowth of some bacteria such as Clostridium difficile which causes inflammation of the colon (pseudomembranous colitis). Patients who develop signs of pseudomembranous colitis after starting Augmentin (diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and possibly shock) should contact their physician immediately. Persons who are allergic to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics, which are related to the penicillins, for example, cefaclor (Ceclor), cephalexin (Keflex), and cefprozil (Cefzil), may or may not be allergic to penicillins.

Co-administration of probenecid, a drug used for treating gout, prevents the normal elimination of amoxicillin by the kidneys and can cause high, toxic blood levels of amoxicillin. Augmentin may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills, increasing the risk of unexpected pregnancies. Combining Augmentin and allopurinol (Zyloprim, Aloprim) may increase the occurrence of skin rash.

Use of Augmentin in pregnant women has not been well studied. Penicillins are generally considered safe for use by pregnant women who are not allergic to penicillin.

Augmentin is excreted in breast milk and may cause diarrhea in the infant.

• Tablets: 250/125 mg (amoxicillin/clavulanic), 500/125, and 875/125 mg.
• Chewable tablets: 125/31.25, 200/28.5, 250/62.5, and 400/57 mg.
• Extended-release tablets:1000/62.5.
• Powder for Suspension: 125/31.25, 200/28.5, 250/62.5, 400/57, and 600/42.9 per 5 ml.

Tablets and dry powder should be stored at room temperature below 25 C (77 F), the former in a tightly closed container. Diluted powder should be refrigerated and discarded after 10 days.