A Guide to Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate

Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate (also marketed under the band names Augmentin, Augmentin ES-600 and Augmentin XR) is prescribed to treat bacterial infections. Common bacterial infections it treats include infections of the ears, lungs, sinus, skin, and urinary tract.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a bacterial infection, the medication Amoxicillin may be able to help. Use the below information as a guide to help you determine if Amoxicillin could be the right medication for you. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication. 

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What is a Bacterial Infection?

A bacterial infection is the reproduction of a harmful strain of bacteria on or inside the body. This type of infection can be divided into four categories: 

• Bacterial skin infections- cellulitis, folliculitis, impetigo, and boils.

• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)- chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. 

• Foodborne bacterial infections- Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni), Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum , Escherichia coli (E. coli), Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), Salmonella, and Vibrio. 

• Other- bacterial meningitis, Otitis media (ear infection), Urinary tract infection (UTI), and Respiratory tract infections (strep throat, bronchitis, sinusitis, and pneumonia)

Complications and Symptoms of Bacterial Infections 

While each bacterial infection can bring on different symptoms and complications, the common symptoms for conditions treated by Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate include:

• fever

• chills and sweats

• swollen lymph nodes

• shortness of breath

• coughing with phlegm 

• unexplained exhaustion or fatigue

• headache

• back, side (flank), or groin pain

• abdominal pain

• frequent urination

• strong, persistent urge to urinate

• burning sensation or pain when urinating

• lesions on the skin

• inflamed skin

• fluid drainage from the abscess

What is Amoxicillin and How Does it Work? 

Amoxicillin is a combination penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections by stopping the growth of bacteria. Compared to Amoxicillin, Augmentin is prescribed for infections that are usually harder to treat, like kidney infections or critical skin abscesses.  

Note that this medication only treats bacterial infections, not viral infections (common cold or flu).

How Do You Use Amoxicillin to Treat Bacterial Infections? 

It is essential that you first consult your healthcare provider before starting any new prescription medication. Also, always be sure to carefully follow the recommendations of your health care provider, use the medication as instructed and as per the directions on the prescription label. 

Use your prescription Amoxicillin in accordance with the directions of your healthcare provider. Do not take it unless you have been diagnosed with a bacterial infection. Taking an antibiotic when not needed can cause you to become antibiotic-resistant, meaning it may not work as effectively for future infections. Finish all of the medication prescribed even if you feel better, as stopping it too early may cause bacteria to grow back and for the infection to return.

You should always follow the directed dosage requirements for this medication. Amoxicillin is given as an oral suspension in either a tablet, chewable tablet, or extended-release tablet form. Strengths differ from 250 mg/125 mg to 875 mg/125 mg of amoxicillin/clavulanate. The typical dose given to adults is one 500-mg tablet every 12 hours or one 250-mg tablet every 8 hours.  The dosing varies depending on the infection that is being treated as well as other factors including whether the medication is being taken every 12 hours or every 8 hours.

How Long Does it Take for Amoxicillin to Work?

Most people notice that the symptoms of their bacterial infection begin to decrease 24 to 72 hours after continuous dosages. As stated earlier, it's crucial to continue taking the medication even if you start to feel better to avoid the infection from returning.

What are Possible Side Effects of Amoxicillin?

It is possible to experience side effects when using Amoxicillin. Again, it is important to follow dosage requirements as abnormal side effects may occur if you take too much medication. Side effects of Amoxicillin include:

• Diarrhea

• Nausea

• Rash

• Vomiting

• Headache

Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate may be the solution treatment for you or someone you know who's struggling with a bacterial infection. CareCard, a discount card for prescriptions, is passionate about helping make your prescription payments more affordable, saving members up to 85% on prescription drugs and medications. You can search for an Amoxicillin coupon here and learn how CareCard can help make your medication payments more manageable.