Augmentin is a prescription antibiotic that can be used during the treatment of a variety of bacterial infections. It is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium.
Augmentin is often prescribed during the treatment of the respiratory and urinary tract, skin, and soft tissue, and is also sometimes used to treat infections of the inner ear or sinuses.
Possible adverse effects of Augmentin include vomiting, dyspepsia, stomach pain, and rash. Some people may also experience changes in the taste of food or beverages while taking Augmentin.
Indications
Augmentin is effective in treating a range of infections, including those of the lower respiratory tract, inner ear, sinuses, skin, and urinary tract. Below, we will discuss the indications for using Augmentin.
- Lower Respiratory Tract Infection. Augmentin is used to treat lower respiratory tract infections. It is effective in fighting the bacteria that cause these infections, helping to relieve symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
- Acute Bacterial Otitis Media. Augmentin is also used to treat acute bacterial otitis media, or an inner ear infection. It is effective in reducing inflammation and clearing the infection, helping to relieve symptoms such as ear pain and fever.
- Augmentin is also used to treat sinusitis, an infection of the sinuses that can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, and facial pain. It is effective in clearing the infection and reducing inflammation, helping to relieve these symptoms.
- Skin and Skin Structure Infections. Augmentin is also used to treat skin and skin structure infections such as impetigo, folliculitis, and cellulitis. It is effective in clearing the infection and reducing inflammation, helping to improve the appearance and health of the affected skin.
- Urinary Tract Infections. Augmentin is also used in the treatment of urinary infections, resulting in pain or burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and abdominal pain. It is effective in clearing the infection and reducing inflammation, helping to relieve these symptoms.
Limitations of Use
It is important to note that Augmentin is not effective in treating viral infections. It should only be used to treat bacterial infections as directed by a healthcare provider. It is also important to finish all of the medication as prescribed. It is also important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, as Augmentin may interact with certain other drugs. It is also important to inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or nursing, as Augmentin may not be safe for use in these situations.
Dosage and Administration of Augmentin Generic
The dosage of Augmentin will depend on the type of infection being treated, the patient’s age and weight, and any other underlying medical conditions the patient may have. Below, we will discuss the dosage of Augmentin for adults, pediatric patients, and people with renal impairment.
- Adults. The usual adult dose of Augmentin is one tablet or one teaspoon every 12 hours. The maximum is 6 g amoxicillin and 100 mg clavulanate.
- Pediatric Patients. The usual dose of Augmentin for pediatric patients is based on the patient’s weight.
- Patients with Renal Impairment. The dosage of Augmentin may need to be adjusted for such patients. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for specific dosing recommendations based on the patient’s kidney function.
Directions for Mixing Oral Suspension
If you are taking the oral suspension form of Augmentin, it is important to follow the instructions for mixing the medication correctly. The oral suspension should be mixed with water and taken with food.
Side Effects of Augmentin
While Augmentin is generally well-tolerated, it may cause adverse effects in some people. Below, we will discuss the potential side effects of Augmentin.
- Gastrointestinal. One of the most frequent side effects of taking Augmentin is gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These adverse effects are usually mild and may go away on their own with time. If they persist or are severe, it is important to notify your healthcare provider.
- Hypersensitivity Reactions. Augmentin may also cause hypersensitivity reactions. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to stop taking Augmentin and seek medical attention immediately.
- Liver. Symptoms of liver damage due to Augmentin are typically yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and abdominal pain or tenderness.
- Renal. Augmentin may also rarely cause kidney damage. Symptoms of kidney damage may include changes in the amount or color of urine, abdominal pain and trouble urinating.
- Hemic and Lymphatic Systems. Augmentin may also cause changes in the hemic and lymphatic systems, including anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to notify your healthcare provider.
- Central Nervous System. Augmentin may also cause CNS side effects, including dizziness, headache, and changes in the taste of food or beverages. These adverse effects are usually mild and may go away on their own with time. If they persist or are severe, it is important to notify your healthcare provider.
- Miscellaneous. Other miscellaneous adverse effects of Augmentin may include fatigue, fever, and changes in the appearance of the skin. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to notify your healthcare provider.
It is important to remember that every medication carries the risk of side effects, and not everyone will experience them.
Drug Interactions
While Augmentin is generally safe and effective, it may interact with certain other medications and affect the way they work. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and herbal remedies you use, to avoid potential drug interactions. Below, we will discuss some of the potential drug interactions of Augmentin.
- Probenecid. Probenecid is a medication used to treat gout and certain kidney conditions. It can interfere with the way Augmentin is metabolized in the body, leading to increased levels of the medication in the bloodstream.
- Oral Anticoagulants. Oral anticoagulants, such as warfarin, are medications used to thin the blood and prevent clotting. Augmentin may increase the anticoagulant effect of these medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Allopurinol. Allopurinol is a medication used to treat gout. It can interfere with the way Augmentin is metabolized in the body, leading to increased levels of the medication in the bloodstream.
- Oral Contraceptives. Augmentin may interfere with oral contraceptives. It is important to use condoms or other similar contraceptives, while taking Augmentin and for a week after completing the course of treatment.
Effects on Laboratory Tests
Augmentin may interfere with a number of laboratory tests, such as urine glucose and urine protein tests. It is important to inform your healthcare provider if you are scheduled for any laboratory tests while taking Augmentin.
It is important to remember that this list is not exhaustive and that there may be other medications that interact with Augmentin. It is always important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions. If you are prescribed Augmentin and are taking any other medications, be sure to discuss the potential for drug interactions with your healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions
While Augmentin is generally safe and effective, it is important to be aware of certain warnings and precautions when taking this medication. In this article, we will discuss some of the potential risks and precautions associated with Augmentin.
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Augmentin may cause hypersensitivity reactions. If you have a history of hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin or other antibiotics, it is important to inform your healthcare provider before taking Augmentin. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Augmentin, it is important to stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
Hepatic Dysfunction
Augmentin may cause liver damage in rare cases. If you have a history of liver disease or if you are taking other medications that may affect the liver, it is important to inform your healthcare provider before taking Augmentin.
Rare Conditions
- Clostridium Difficile Associated Diarrhea (CDAD). Augmentin, like other antibiotics, may cause CDAD, a serious and sometimes fatal gastrointestinal infection. Symptoms of CDAD may include diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, and high fever.
- Skin Rash in Patients with Mononucleosis. Augmentin may cause a skin rash in patients with mononucleosis. If you have mononucleosis and develop a rash while taking Augmentin, it is vital to contact a doctor.
- Potential for Microbial Overgrowth. Augmentin, like other antibiotics, may alter the normal balance of bacteria in the body and lead to the overgrowth of other types of bacteria or fungi. This can cause additional infections and may require treatment with additional medications.
- Augmentin oral suspension has a certain amount of aspartame, which acts as a source of phenylalanine. People with phenylketonuria, a rare genetic disorder, should be aware of this and take it into consideration when taking Augmentin oral suspension.
- Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria. Augmentin, like other antibiotics, may contribute to the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
It is important to remember that this list is not exhaustive and that there may be other warnings and precautions associated with Augmentin.
Augmentin Generic and Brand Price in Canada
The cost of Augmentin in Canada is contingent on whether the brand-name or generic version is being bought. Augmentin is a brand name medication manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. It is usually more expensive than its generic counterpart, which is produced by various manufacturers and can be purchased as tablets or liquid. The cost of brand name Augmentin can vary based on the dosage, quantity, and insurance coverage. For instance, a 30-day supply of brand name Augmentin tablets may cost around $100-$150 without insurance. On the other hand, the price of generic Augmentin at Canadian pharmacy can also depend on the dosage, quantity, and insurance coverage. For instance, a 30-day supply of generic Augmentin tablets may cost around $30-$50 without insurance.
It’s wise to look into the cost of Augmentin (brand-name and generic) depending on where you make your purchase. Shopping around at a local pharmacy or online could lead to a better deal. Compare prices and review all of your choices prior to spending money.
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