Amoxicillin-clavulanate: how to take it safely
Augmentin, Amoxiclav
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats chest, sinus, ear, urine, skin and dental infections.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
When to take it
Take it twice or 3 times a day, at evenly spaced times.
Take it with
At the start of a meal, which reduces stomach upset.
What to avoid
- Stopping the course early.
- Sharing or saving leftover antibiotics.
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin or other antibiotics.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver problems.
Possible side effects
Diarrhoea, nausea, thrush, mild rash.
Get help if
Rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or trouble breathing: get urgent help. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, or no improvement after 2 to 3 days: see a doctor. Yellow skin or eyes or dark urine, even weeks after finishing: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.