Augmentin Tablet is a prescription antibiotic medicine containing amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-class antibacterial medicine, while clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that helps protect amoxicillin from certain bacterial enzymes that would otherwise break it down. This combination extends activity against a wider range of susceptible bacteria than amoxicillin alone.
Augmentin may be prescribed for selected bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, ear, sinuses, urinary tract, skin and soft tissues, bones and joints, and certain dental infections, depending on the specific formulation, local antibiotic guidelines and bacterial susceptibility. GSK India specifically advises that Augmentin should be used according to local antibiotic-prescribing guidance and local susceptibility data.
Augmentin does not treat viral infections such as the common cold or influenza. Antibiotics should only be used when a bacterial infection is diagnosed or strongly suspected, because unnecessary antibiotic use contributes to antimicrobial resistance.
Amoxicillin works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall, causing susceptible bacteria to die. Some bacteria produce beta-lactamase enzymes that can inactivate amoxicillin. Clavulanate inhibits many of these beta-lactamases, allowing amoxicillin to remain active against susceptible beta-lactamase-producing organisms.
Augmentin tablets should be taken exactly as prescribed, and GSK India recommends taking oral Augmentin at the start of a meal to improve clavulanate absorption and reduce gastrointestinal intolerance. The tablet should generally be swallowed whole. The correct dose depends on the formulation strength, infection severity, age and kidney function.
Common adverse effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and mucocutaneous candidiasis. More serious but less common risks include severe allergic reactions, antibiotic-associated colitis and liver-related reactions. People with a history of serious penicillin/beta-lactam allergy or previous amoxicillin-clavulanate-associated jaundice or hepatic dysfunction should inform their healthcare professional before treatment.
Product Information
Brand Name: Augmentin Tablet
Generic Name: Amoxicillin / Amoxycillin + Clavulanate Potassium
Active Components: Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid
Dosage Form: Film-Coated Tablet
Route: Oral
Drug Class: Penicillin Antibiotic + Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor
Therapeutic Area: Susceptible bacterial infections
Brand/Prescribing Information: GSK India
Prescription Status: Prescription antibiotic