Introduction
Augmentin belongs to an antibiotic group of drugs called penicillins. It kills bacteria in the body. This drug is also applied for the treatment of many different infections caused by bacteria, for example sinusitis, ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, infections of the skin and urinary tract infections.
Take Augmentin every 8 or 12 hours, depending on the dosage strength. You can use it with or without food. In case you feel stomach upset, take it with meals or snacks. But, the extended-release form, Augmentin XR, must always be taken with food to develop absorption. Continue the medicine your doctor has prescribed, though you begin to feel better. If you are using liquid form, then shake the suspension well. Apply a dosing spoon or medication dropper to provide a child the drug; rinse the spoon or dropper after each use.
Important Considerations Before Taking Augmentin
If you had an allergic reaction to penicillin or to a cephalosporin in the past, let your doctor know. Your doctor must be informed before taking Augmentin, if you have liver disease; mononucleosis or kidney disease. In the above conditions, you may not be worthy to use Augmentin, or your doctor may advise a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Potential Side Effects
Report your doctor if you develop signs of an allergic reaction: swelling of your face, hives; difficulty breathing; lips, tongue, or throat. Abstain from continuing the drug and call your doctor at once if you have severe diarrhea that lasts longer than 3 days. It may cause some less serious side effects mild diarrhea, nausea, headache; or vomiting; skin rash or itching; stomach pain; white patches in your mouth or throat; or gas, vaginal yeast infection (itching or discharge). Carry on using the tablets and talk to your doctor if they become serious.
Drug Interactions
Augmentin should not be taken with the following drugs Probenecid (Benemid); Allopurinol (Zyloprim); or another antibiotic (for the same or for a different infection). Let your doctor know if you are using any of them.
There may be other drugs that have not been listed. Acquaint with your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use including minerals, vitamins, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not use a new medication without telling your doctor.
Drug Warnings & Precautions
Augmentin may make birth control pills less efficient. Utilize a second non-hormone method of birth control like a condom to prevent pregnancy. People with liver, or blood disorders, kidney may be at risk if use this drug. Ask for substitute to your doctor. If you experience diarrhea while taking Amoxicillin, tell your doctor. It could be a sign of a possibly dangerous form of bowel inflammation.
Some formulations of Augmentin hold phenylalanine. If you have the hereditary disease phenylketonuria, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this preparation. These tablets can lead to unusual results with certain medical tests. Let your doctor know that you are using Amoxicillin. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or wish to become pregnant during treatment or breast-feeding a baby. In the above conditions, this drug can’t be prescribed.