Co-amoxiclav (also called Amoxicillin/Clavulanate) is a combination antibiotic containing amoxicillin (penicillin group) + clavulanic acid, developed to beat bacteria that have become resistant to plain amoxicillin. Clavulanic acid blocks the enzyme bacteria use to destroy amoxicillin — making it work again and much stronger. Brand name: Augmentin; many generics available.
🧪 Composition & Forms
- Tablets:
- 375mg = 250mg amoxicillin + 125mg clavulanic acid
- 625mg = 500mg + 125mg (most common)
- 1g = 875mg + 125mg (strong dose)
- Suspensions:
- 156mg/5mL, 312.5mg/5mL, 457mg/5mL (stronger for kids)
- Appearance: White/yellowish film-coated tablets; white/yellow powder → sweet fruity liquid after mixing.
🎯 Main Uses
Used when ordinary amoxicillin fails or infection is severe:
- Respiratory: severe sinusitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia
- Ear: repeated or severe middle ear infection
- Urinary: complicated bladder/kidney infections
- Skin & wounds: cellulitis, abscesses, animal/human bites, surgical wounds
- Dental: deep infections, spreading tooth abscess
- Bone/joint infections Does NOT work for colds, flu, or viruses.
⚙️ Dosage & Administration
- Adults / ≥40kg:
- Standard: 625mg 3 times daily (every 8 hours)
- Severe: 1g 3 times daily
- Children <40kg: suspension only, 25–45mg/kg/day, split 3 doses
- ✅ IMPORTANT: Take AT START OF MEAL → reduces diarrhea & increases absorption
- Course: 5–7 days; 10–14 days for deep infections
- Finish full course — stopping early causes resistance.
⚠️ Side Effects
- Most common: diarrhea, loose stools, nausea, stomach ache, vomiting — more common than plain amoxicillin
- Others: rash, headache, thrush, dizziness
- ⚠️ WARNING:
- DO NOT TAKE if allergic to penicillin/amoxicillin or had liver problems with this drug before
- Allergy signs: hives, swelling, trouble breathing → emergency care
- Rare: liver changes, severe diarrhea, kidney issues.
📌 Important Notes
- Stronger & broader than amoxicillin — first choice for harder infections
- Safe in pregnancy/breastfeeding when prescribed
- Lowers birth control effect → use extra protection
- More expensive than plain amoxicillin
- Store dry cool; suspension → refrigerate, use within 7–10 days.
Product Code: coamox
Product Condition : New