Augmentin

Augmentin is an antibacterial drug for systemic use. It belongs to the group of beta-lactam antibiotics in combination with penicillins. It contains amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. Likewise, it is prescribed for the treatment of infectious diseases that have been provoked by microorganisms that are not resistant to Augmentin.

How does Augmentin work?

Augmentin is effective in treating pathologies that have been caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In its pure form, it is not effective in treating infections caused by microorganisms that produce β-lactamases. Clavulanic acid has been added to inactivate these enzymes, which increases the number of cases in which the drug of the penicillin group can be used.

How long does Augmentin stay in your system?

60-70% of amoxicillin and 45% of clavulanic acid are excreted by the body through the kidneys during the first 6 hours. 10-15% of the drug leaves the body as an inactive metabolite. The maximal amount of components in blood plasma is reached during the first hours after prescription.

Indications for administration

- Acute course of bacterial sinusitis.

- Inflammatory process of the middle ear.

- Active phase of chronic bronchitis.

- Non-hospital inflammation of the lungs.

- Cystitis.

- Pyelonephritis.

- Infectious diseases of the skin and soft tissues.

- Infections in the bones and joints.

Dosage regimen and dosage

The dose of Augmentin is prescribed taking into account the sensitivity to the microorganisms that caused the infectious disease. Therefore, a sensitivity test is recommended before starting to take it. When prescribing a certain amount of the drug, the severity of the patient's condition, which body system the infection is in, age and weight are taken into account. Kidney function is also taken into account.

If the weight is more than 40 kg and the severe stage of the infectious disease, the daily dose is 1500 mg/and 375 mg. The minimum dose for children 6 years old whose weight is between 25-40 kg is 20 mg/5 mg/kg to 60 mg/15 mg per 1 kg. For adult patients with mild to moderate course of infection, 1 tablet of 250 mg and 125 mg 3 times a day is used in therapy. For children, weighing less than 25 kg, the drug is contraindicated. Augmentin suspension is prescribed for children under 12 years of age and weighing less than 40 kg.

Side effects of Augmentin

Frequent side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, candidal lesions of the skin and mucous membranes. Infrequent manifestations include:

- dizziness and headaches;

- stomach upset;

- Increased levels of AST and/or ALT5;

- allergic reactions.

In case of overdose, symptomatic treatment is carried out. Do not take in case of individual intolerance, liver and kidney disorders.

Is Augmentin safe during pregnancy?

No teratogenic effect on the body was revealed during studies. It is not recommended to prescribe the drug during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, except in cases where the benefit is greater than the risk to the fetus.

Augmentin and breastfeeding

The active ingredients pass into breast milk. Can cause gastrointestinal disorders and fungal mucosal infections in the infant. Therefore, breastfeeding should be stopped for the duration of treatment. Simultaneous use is allowed, and breastfeeding only if the benefit is greater than the risk.

Cost of Augmentin

The price of Augmentin depends on the dosage of the drug. Combinations of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid are possible: 875 mg/125 mg, 500 mg/125 mg.  The shelf life of the drug is 3 years. Store in a place with closed access for children.