name | Amoxicillin Clavulanate |
classification | Penicillin-class antibiotic, specifically a combination of amoxicillin (a penicillin-type antibiotic) and clavulanate (a beta-lactamase inhibitor). |
pharmacokinetics | Amoxicillin is absorbed well from the gastrointestinal tract. Clavulanate enhances the activity of amoxicillin by inhibiting bacterial enzymes that break down amoxicillin. The combination is distributed throughout the body, with concentrations in various tissues and organs. Excretion primarily occurs through the kidneys. Clavulanate's renal excretion is also significant. |
suggested dosage | The dosage depends on the indication and severity of the infection. A typical dosage range for adults is 250 mg/125 mg to 500 mg/125 mg every 8 hours, or 875 mg/125 mg every 12 hours. A healthcare professional should determine the specific dosage and duration of treatment based on individual factors. |
indications | Amoxicillin/clavulanate is used to treat bacterial infections. Common indications include: respiratory infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia), skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and otitis media. It is usually used for infections caused by susceptible bacteria. |
safety in pregnancy | Amoxicillin/clavulanate is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. However, it's important to discuss its use with a healthcare professional, especially during the first trimester. |
safety in breastfeeding | Amoxicillin/clavulanate passes into breast milk. While usually considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, it's important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare professional to determine if the benefits of taking the drug outweigh the risks to the infant. |
side effects | 1 | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain | 2 | Rash, itching | 3 | Headache | 4 | Diarrhea, including potentially severe cases or antibiotic-associated colitis | 5 | Superinfection (e.g., yeast infections) | 6 | Allergic reactions (ranging from mild skin rash to severe anaphylaxis) | 7 | Elevated liver enzymes (hepatic dysfunction) | 8 | Kidney problems (especially with high doses or pre-existing kidney issues) |
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alternatives | |
contraindications | 1 | Hypersensitivity or allergy to penicillin, amoxicillin, or clavulanate | 2 | Severe renal impairment | 3 | Possible allergic cross-reactivity with other cephalosporins or penicillins |
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interactions | 1 | Other antibiotics | 2 | Drugs that affect liver function | 3 | Certain anticoagulants | 4 | Oral contraceptives (potential decreased effectiveness) |
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warnings and precautions | 1 | Monitor for signs of allergic reaction (rash, hives, difficulty breathing). | 2 | Monitor for signs of superinfection, particularly diarrhea. Adjust dosage or treatment if necessary. | 3 | Caution is needed in patients with a history of liver or kidney disease. | 4 | Do not take alcohol when taking this medicine. | 5 | Inform your doctor about all medications you're currently taking (prescription or over-the-counter). | 6 | Adhere to the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment. |
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additional information | The patient's age and weight (70 kg) are not directly relevant to dosage adjustments for this particular drug unless there are other underlying health conditions. Always follow a doctor's instructions regarding dosage. |
patient specific considerations | 1 | parameter | Age | details | No dosage adjustments typically needed for age 25. |
| 2 | parameter | Weight | details | No dosage adjustments typically needed for weight of 70 kg. |
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