Overview

Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid is a broad-spectrum antibiotic combination used to treat various bacterial infections.

Amoxicillin kills bacteria by interfering with cell wall synthesis.
Clavulanic Acid inhibits bacterial enzymes (β-lactamases) that normally break down amoxicillin, allowing it to remain active for longer and act against more resistant bacteria.

together, they provide enhanced protection against a wider range of bacterial infections than amoxicillin alone.

Uses

This combination is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:

Respiratory tract infections: pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Skin and soft tissue infections
Gastrointestinal infections: diarrhea, enteritis
Bone and joint infections: osteomyelitis, septic arthritis
Bloodstream infections: sepsis, endocarditis

Directions for Use

Take this medicine as directed by your doctor.
Usually taken every 8–12 hours with a meal to reduce stomach upset.
Swallow whole with water—do not crush or chew.
Complete the full prescribed course even if you feel better early.

Common Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and temporary:

Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach discomfort
Headache or dizziness
Skin rash or itching
Loss of appetite
Vaginal itching or discharge
Fatigue or weakness
Taste changes

Serious (but rare) side effects:

Allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing, hives)
Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)
Seizures (rare)
Liver or kidney issues
Blood disorders (low red or white cells, platelets)

Warnings

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have:

Allergy to penicillin or cephalosporins
Liver or kidney disease
History of antibiotic-related diarrhea
Blood disorders

⚠️ Avoid if: You are also taking tetracycline antibiotics.
🚫 Do not skip doses or stop early — this can cause infection relapse or resistance.

Drug Interactions

Warfarin: May increase bleeding risk.
Methotrexate: Can increase toxicity.
Probenecid: Raises amoxicillin levels.
Oral contraceptives: May reduce effectiveness.
Tetracyclines: May decrease antibiotic effect.
Antacids: Reduce absorption — take 2 hours apart.

Food interactions:

Avoid dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt) and iron/zinc supplements near dose times — they can reduce absorption.

Disease Interactions

Liver disease: May increase liver injury risk.
Kidney disease: May require dose adjustment.
Blood disorders: Monitor blood counts closely.

Contraindications

Do not consume alcohol — may increase stomach irritation or drowsiness.
Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed (doctor’s advice).
Breastfeeding: Small amounts pass into milk; consult your doctor.

Missed Dose

Take as soon as you remember.
If it’s near your next dose, skip the missed one — don’t double up.

Lifestyle Advice

Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals.
Avoid alcohol and quit smoking.
Exercise at least 30 minutes daily (150 minutes per week).

Storage

Store at room temperature (below 25 °C).
Keep away from heat, moisture, and sunlight.
Do not refrigerate.