Augmentin BID (Co-amoxiclav)

Co-amoxiclav is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including middle ear and sinus infections, skin and dental infections, cystitis, bronchitis and pneumonia, and bone and joint infections.

Co-amoxiclav contains a mixture of two active components. The first constituent is amoxicillin. This is a member of the penicillin group of antibiotics, which kills the bacteria responsible for the infection by preventing them from forming cell walls. The problem is that some bacteria are able to develop defence mechanisms that inactivate amoxicillin. Clavulanic acid, which is the second constituent of co-amoxiclav, stops this from happening and makes sure that the amoxicillin component remains effective. The two ingredients, therefore, work in harmony to ensure that all the bacteria at the site of infection are killed thereby allowing symptoms to clear up.

How to use Co-amoxiclav?

Co-amoxiclav is prescribed as tablets of different dose strengths depending on the infection being treated. It is also available in liquid form for children (The Online Clinic does not prescribe for children however). The dose of co-amoxiclav and the duration of treatment will depend on the type of infection you have. Most infections in older children and adults clear up with one dose taken three times a day for a maximum of 2 weeks. The dosage needs to be carefully adjusted if you have kidney or liver problems. We will be able to advise you on this matter once we see your completed consultation form.

Co-amoxiclav should always be taken at the start of a meal or slightly before. Try your best to space the doses evenly throughout the day. It is important that you finish the complete course that has been prescribed even if symptoms disappear in the first few days. If you stop taking the tablets early there is a risk that the infection will come back. If you forget a dose, take a tablet as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose then it best to skip the missed dose. Taking two tablets within 1 hour will increase the risk of side effects.

Who can use Co-amoxiclav?

You will not be able to take co-amoxiclav if you are allergic to either of its components or if you have suffered an allergic reaction or developed liver problems while taking certain other types of antibiotic. In addition, Augmentin (co-amoxiclav) will not be a suitable option if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

It has been shown that co-amoxiclav interacts with warfarin and some of the medicines used to treat gout. It can also affect the results of routine blood or urine tests. We will be able to assess all of these factors once we have your medical details.

Augmentin (Co-amoxiclav) side effects

As with other antibiotics, the most common side effects of co-amoxiclav are diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting. However, not everyone experiences these problems. If you are affected, you should drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. It is also worth considering using condoms in addition to oral contraceptives until the vomiting or diarrhoea have cleared up. Otherwise, the levels of hormones in your bloodstream may fall below those that provide effective contraception. Some people develop oral or vaginal thrush after taking certain antibiotics. If this occurs, ask us for advice.

You should contact us immediately if you get a severe or unusual looking skin rash or if you become jaundiced with yellow skin and have a fever. If you experience swelling of the tongue, collapse, develop convulsions or if your tongue starts to look black then you should call 999. These are extremely rare side effects, but they require immediate treatment.