What is amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium used for?
Amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium (often written as amoxicillin-clavulanate or Augmentin) is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It pairs:
- Amoxicillin (kills bacteria)
- Clavulanate potassium (helps amoxicillin work against bacteria that would otherwise resist it)
This combination is commonly prescribed for infections such as:
- Sinus infections (sinusitis)
- Ear infections (otitis media)
- Throat infections (including strep throat when appropriate)
- Lung infections like bronchitis or pneumonia, depending on the cause
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs), including some more complicated cases
- Skin and soft-tissue infections
- Dental infections (like abscesses)
Why does the “clavulanate” part matter?
Some bacteria produce enzymes that break down amoxicillin and make it ineffective. Clavulanate helps block those enzymes, which can broaden the antibiotic’s coverage compared with amoxicillin alone.
What types of infections is it NOT for?
Amoxicillin/clavulanate does not treat infections caused by viruses (for example, most colds and flu). It also may not help if a specific infection is caused by bacteria that are resistant to this drug combination.
How is it typically taken?
It’s usually taken by mouth (tablets or liquid suspension). Dosing and duration depend on the infection type, severity, kidney function, and whether it’s being used for an adult or child.
What should patients watch for?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Contact a clinician right away for severe allergic reactions (like hives, swelling, or trouble breathing) or for severe/persistent diarrhea.
Sources
No sources were provided in the prompt.