Augmentin: Frequently Asked Questions About This Antibiotic
| Product: | Augmentin 1000mg, 625mg, 375mg Tablets |
|---|---|
| Description: | Broad-spectrum antibiotic combining amoxicillin and clavulanic acid for treating various bacterial infections. |
| Package: | 14 tablets in blister pack |
| Price: | $0.97 |
1. Where can you buy Augmentin online and what should you be careful about?
Augmentin is available through online pharmacies but is a prescription-only medication. Ensure the website is licensed and the product is original with official packaging. For more information, see Wikipedia: Augmentin.
2. What is Augmentin and what does it contain?
Augmentin is a broad-spectrum combination antibiotic containing: Amoxicillin and Clavulanic acid. Details at NIH PubChem.
3. How does Augmentin work against bacterial infections?
Amoxicillin disrupts bacterial cell wall synthesis, and clavulanic acid protects it from enzyme degradation, making it effective against resistant strains.
4. What infections is Augmentin used to treat?
- Respiratory infections (sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia)
- Ear infections (otitis)
- Urinary tract infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
| Condition | Recommended Augmentin form |
|---|---|
| Acute sinusitis | Tablets 875/125 mg |
| Pediatric bronchitis | Suspension 400/57 mg per 5 ml |
| Skin infections | Tablets 500/125 mg or IV form |
5. What forms of Augmentin are available?
Tablets: 250/125 mg, 500/125 mg, 875/125 mg
Suspensions: 125/31.25 mg per 5 ml, 400/57 mg per 5 ml
IV powder for hospital use.
See Drugs.com: Augmentin for product info.
6. How should Augmentin be taken by adults and children?
Adults: 875/125 mg twice daily
Children: 25–45 mg/kg/day (based on weight)
| Age Group | Dosage Form | Example Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | Tablets 875/125 mg | Twice daily |
| Children <12 yrs | Suspension 400/57 mg per 5 ml | 2–3x/day based on weight |
Take with food to reduce side effects and improve absorption.
7. Video: How Augmentin Works and Who Should Take It
8. What are the side effects of Augmentin?
- Common: diarrhea, nausea, oral thrush, rash
- Rare: hepatitis, cholestasis, severe allergic reactions
9. What drug interactions should be considered with Augmentin?
- Enhances effect of anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
- Reduces effectiveness of birth control pills
- Increases methotrexate toxicity
- Skin reactions with allopurinol
10. Is Augmentin safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
May be used during 2nd/3rd trimester with doctor supervision.
Safe during breastfeeding, but monitor infant for diarrhea or rash.
11. How long should Augmentin be taken? What if a dose is missed?
Typical course: 5 to 14 days.
If a dose is missed, take it ASAP. Do not double the dose.
Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.
12. What are the alternatives to Augmentin?
- Amoxiclav (Lek, Slovenia)
- Flemoklav Solutab (Astellas, Japan)
- Generics: Panklav, Clamoxyl, Clavocin
13. How should Augmentin be stored and what is its shelf life?
- Tablets: store at ≤25 °C (room temperature)
- Suspension: refrigerate and use within 7 days
- Do not use expired medication