What is Augmentin and why is it prescribed?

Augmentin contains two active ingredients that extends the antibiotic activity to a wider range of infections. The rationale behind this is due to the addition of clavulanic acid which has special activity against beta-lactamase producing bacteria. These infections can cause resistance against certain penicillin antibiotics including amoxicillin by itself, Read More...

How does Augmentin work?

Amoxicillin blocks the formation of bacterial cell walls, rendering bacteria unable to multiply and spread. The bacteria therefore break up and die.

Clavulanate enhances the effectiveness of amoxicillin by inhibiting the activity of a specific enzyme (beta-lactamase) produced by certain drug-resistant strains of bacteria.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Augmentin

Augmentin may react with the antigout medication Benemid, resulting in changes in blood levels.

A reaction with another antigout drug, Zyloprim, may cause a rash. Notify your doctor if you are taking either of these drugs, Read More...