Clavulanate

Clavulanate 125mg, 250mg, 500mg

Clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor used in conjunction with penicillins to enhance their effectiveness against certain bacteria. It works by preventing the breakdown of antibiotics, allowing them to effectively treat infections caused by beta-lactamase-producing bacteria. Commonly found in formulations like amoxicillin-clavulanate, it is used to address respiratory infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections, providing a broader spectrum of antibacterial activity.

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Description

Clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that is combined with certain antibiotics to enhance their effectiveness against resistant bacteria. By inhibiting beta-lactamase enzymes produced by some bacteria, Clavulanate allows antibiotics like amoxicillin to work more effectively, broadening their spectrum of activity against bacterial infections.

Uses / Indications

Bacterial infections resistant to standard treatments
Acute bacterial sinusitis
Pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Skin and soft tissue infections
Otic (ear) infections

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children 12 years and older:
Dosage typically ranges from 875 mg of amoxicillin combined with 125 mg of Clavulanate every 12 hours or 500 mg amoxicillin with 125 mg Clavulanate every 8 hours, depending on the severity of the infection.

Children aged 2–12 years:
Dosage is based on weight and usually involves a syrup formulation that combines appropriate dosages of Clavulanate and amoxicillin.

Note: Dosage may vary based on infection type or doctor’s advice.

How It Works (Mechanism of Action)

Clavulanate works by binding to the active site of beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria, thus preventing these enzymes from breaking down the beta-lactam antibiotics. This allows the antibiotics to effectively target and kill the bacteria, improving treatment outcomes for infections.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

Nausea
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Rash

Rare/serious side effects:

Severe allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing)
Liver damage (indicated by jaundice or dark urine)
Severe skin reactions

Seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Precautions / Warnings

Inform your doctor if you have liver disease or are pregnant/breastfeeding
Avoid using if you are allergic to Clavulanate or penicillin antibiotics
May interact with blood thinners or certain other medications

Drug Interactions

Clavulanate may interact with:

Anticoagulants (may increase bleeding risk)
Bacteriostatic antibiotics (may reduce the effectiveness of Clavulanate)
Other medications that are metabolized by the liver

Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you’re taking.

Storage Instructions

Store at room temperature (20°C–25°C / 68°F–77°F)
Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct light
Refrigerate liquid formulations and discard after 7 days if unrefrigerated
Keep out of reach of children

Missed Dose / Overdose

Missed a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.

Overdose symptoms:

Nausea and vomiting
Severe diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Skin rash

Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical help immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Contraindications

Allergic to Clavulanate or any penicillin antibiotics
History of serious reaction to beta-lactam antibiotics

Brand Names / Alternatives

Augmentin
Augmentin ES
Amoclan (international)
Generic name: Amoxicillin and Clavulanate