AUGMENTIN - a patient's guide
Editorial Team

Drug name: Amoxycillin and clavulanic acid (Co-amoxiclav)

Use: Antibiotic - broad spectrum penicillin

This medicine contains two active ingredients that extends the antibiotic activity to a wider range of infections. The rationale behind this is due to the addition of clavulanic acid which has special activity against beta-lactamase producing bacteria. These infections can cause resistance against certain penicillin antibiotics including amoxycillin by itself.

Cautions:

Allergy to penicillin
Liver and kidney impairment
Glandular fever
Bowel inflammatory conditions
Pregnancy

Side effects:

Occasional:
stomach upset
vaginal thrush susceptibility

Rarely:
skin rash (discontinue treatment)
liver damage

Interactions:

Oral contraceptive (the Pill) users - use additional contraception (e.g. condoms) until SEVEN DAYS after the course of antibiotics is completed.

Patient information:

Follow the instructions on the label of the medicine or as directed by your doctor

Always complete the course of antibiotics unless directed by your doctor or a skin rash develops

Food: take with or after food and large glass of water

Alcohol: little effect in moderation

Contact your doctor or seek urgent medical help if side effects are severe or ongoing.