Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) — what you need to know

Augmentin is a common antibiotic you’ll hear about a lot. It combines amoxicillin with clavulanic acid to treat infections that plain amoxicillin can’t handle. That extra clavulanate blocks bacterial enzymes that would otherwise destroy the antibiotic. In short: Augmentin often works when simple penicillins don’t.

How Augmentin works and common doses

Augmentin fights bacteria by stopping cell wall growth (that’s the amoxicillin part) while clavulanate protects it. Doctors prescribe it for ear infections, sinusitis, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, and some skin and dental infections.

Typical adults doses: 500/125 mg every 8 hours or 875/125 mg every 12 hours. For kids, dose is weight-based — the pharmacist or doctor will give exact mg/kg instructions. There’s also an extended-release tablet and different liquid strengths for children. Always follow the prescription label: don’t split extended-release tablets and finish the full course even if you feel better.

Side effects, precautions, and interactions

Most people tolerate Augmentin fine. The common side effects are upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes a rash. Take it with food to reduce stomach upset. If you get severe diarrhea, high fever, or bloody stools, tell your doctor — that can indicate C. difficile infection.

Serious allergic reactions are rare but possible, especially if you’ve had penicillin allergies before. If you see hives, swelling, trouble breathing, or fainting, seek emergency care. Also tell your provider about liver disease — Augmentin can affect liver tests in some people.

Augmentin can interact with methotrexate and certain blood thinners. It may reduce the effectiveness of some birth control pills slightly; use a backup method if needed. Always list your medicines and supplements when you get a prescription.

For dental infections, Augmentin is often chosen when amoxicillin alone won’t cut it. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, clinicians commonly consider it safe, but always check with your provider first.

Storage is simple: keep tablets and liquid at room temperature away from moisture. Liquid forms often need refrigeration and have a short shelf life once mixed — check the label.

Thinking of buying Augmentin online? Only use licensed pharmacies. Look for a physical address, pharmacist contact, and clear prescription requirements. Avoid sites that ship without a prescription or offer suspiciously low prices. If you buy from a new online pharmacy, check reviews and verify licensure through official pharmacy boards.

Questions to ask your provider: Is Augmentin the best choice for my infection? How long should I take it? What should I watch for in terms of side effects? Getting clear answers will help the antibiotic work and reduce risks.

Augmentin is a useful antibiotic when used correctly. Follow dosing, finish the course, and stay in touch with your healthcare team if anything unusual happens.

When to Replace Amoxicillin: Escalating to Augmentin or Cephalosporins for Respiratory Infections
Angus MacAlister 30 April 2025
When to Replace Amoxicillin: Escalating to Augmentin or Cephalosporins for Respiratory Infections

Ever wonder at what point plain old amoxicillin just doesn't cut it for a stubborn respiratory infection? This article breaks down when doctors think about switching to bigger guns like Augmentin or cephalosporins, what signs push that decision, and why resistance is making things more complicated. You’ll find a practical run-through of clues, real numbers, and smart tactics so you can better understand why that antibiotic script sometimes changes. This is the article you wish you’d read before your last trip to the pharmacy.