Augmentin is approved for the use of lower respiratory tract infections where the cause is related to B-lactamase-producing bacteria. These strains can be related to either the H. influenzae or M. catarrhalis families. Patients with a lower respiratory tract infection may present with a fever, chest pain or tightness, wheezing noises, a poor appetite, and reduced energy.
Augmentin antibiotic prescription available online
If you are suffering from bacterial infections, the antibiotic medication Augmentin can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Augmentin from a caring, board-certified doctor online.*
About Augmentin (amoxicillin and clavulanic acid)
Augmentin is an antibiotic in the penicillin class of drugs consisting of two ingredients, amoxicillin and clavulanate. Clavulanate, or clavulanic acid functions by working together with the antibiotic amoxicillin to increase potency against bacterial infections. Like any antibiotic, this medication can only be used for the treatment of infections that are caused by bacteria. It is ineffective against viral or fungal infections because it will not kill viruses or fungi.
Some conditions that Augmentin is known to treat include urinary tract infections, sinus infections, skin abscesses, strep throat, pyelonephritis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and infections of the lower respiratory tract. Augmentin is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation referred to as amoxicillin and clavulanic acid or amoxicillin and clavulanate.
Augmentin may be prescribed as an oral suspension or tablets. There are also extended release and chewable tablets available. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage that you are prescribed.
If you are prescribed Augmentin by your doctor online or locally, be sure to complete the full course of the antibiotics unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop.
If you don’t complete your prescription, the antibiotics may not fully treat bacterial infections.
Augmentin uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for Augmentin, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your doctor may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your health care provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Lower respiratory tract infections
Otitis media
Otitis media is a a bacterial ear infection that forms in the middle ear canal. It is also known as a middle ear infection. The FDA approves the use of Augmentin as a treatment in cases where otitis media is caused by M. catarrhalis or H. influenzae strains that produce B-lactamase.
Sinusitis
Skin and skin structure infections
Urinary tract infections
A urinary tract infection is the result of bacterial overgrowth in the urinary system. These bacterial infections can affect various parts of the urinary system. While the urinary tract itself is usually the affected part, the bacteria can sometimes move upward toward the bladder too. Urinary tract infections caused by E.coli, Enterobacter spp, or Klebsiella spp are all approved to be treated with Augmentin by the FDA. If you suspect a UTI, seeking a UTI prescription online from healthcare professionals after an assessment of your symptoms and medical history is a convenient option.
Augmentin side effects
The side effects associated with taking Augmentin are typically mild as the drug is well tolerated. Most Augmentin side effects are associated with symptoms that affect the digestive system and gastrointestinal tract. Augmentin has some common side effects. They may include:
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Diarrhea
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Nausea
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Gastritis
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Indigestion
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Skin rashes
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Hives
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Vomiting
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Vaginitis
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:
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Hypersensitivity reactions can include skin rashes. This sometimes occurs due to an allergic reaction.
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Augmentin may increase ALT and AST levels, which could be problematic for patients who have existing liver disease and related conditions.
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Rare occurrences of interstitial nephritis have been found. Other kidney related side effects can rarely include hematuria.
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Side-effects concerning the lymphatic system are also rare but can be severe.
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There are certain cases where Augmentin also affects the central nervous system. This can lead to anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, and hyperactivity.
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.
Due to the effects that Augmentin can have on the liver, it is important for those with existing liver disease to check with their healthcare professionals. The same applies to individuals who have been diagnosed with kidney disease.
Augmentin also belongs to a class of antibiotic treatment drugs known as penicillins. People who have experienced allergic reactions to penicillin in the past should point that out to their healthcare professionals. Augmentin is likely to lead to similar allergic reactions in these patients.
How to take Augmentin
Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Augmentin can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed two to four times a day. Some specific instructions may include not taking Augmentin on an empty stomach or having the capsule with a full glass of water. The timing of each dose will also be discussed by the pharmacist, which may include taking the medication every eight to 12 hours.
Never take a double Augmentin dosage if you notice a missed dose. If it is too close to the next dose, then skip the dose, but still ensure you finish all of the capsules or tablets that were prescribed to you.
What to avoid while taking Augmentin
It is important to avoid the use of probenecid when taking Augmentin. Probenecid is a type of medication that can be used to prevent the progression of gout, as well as gouty arthritis. It is generally prescribed to patients with a low intensity of symptoms, as it does not treat more severe cases. If the patient takes probenecid, then it may have an adverse effect on the tubular secretion of the amoxicillin contained in Augmentin. The use of these two medications together may cause a high level of amoxicillin to remain in the blood circulatory system.
Patients should also be careful when consuming Augmentin tablets with allopurinol. There are numerous uses or allopurinol, including the treatment of kidney stones, gout, and high uric acid levels. Research has shown that the risk of developing rashes as a side effect increases significantly when the patient consumes these two drugs concurrently.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Augmentin.
Some research shows that regular alcohol consumption may cause serious health problems in the human body. Regular alcohol consumption able to have an impact on metabolism and the gastrointestinal tract. Alcohol may also reduce the medication’s ability to do its job.
While there are no direct drug interactions documented between Augmentin and alcohol, it is important to note that alcoholic drinks may increase the risk of certain Augmentin side effects. People who drink while they take Augmentin XR are more likely to experience nausea, as well as vomiting.
Medication alternatives to Augmentin
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another amoxicillin and clavulanate combination or an antibiotic in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Augmentin prescription FAQs
How much does Augmentin cost?
How can I refill my Augmentin prescription?
What should I check before giving Augmentin?
What happens if you take Augmentin on an empty stomach?
When should Augmentin be taken?
Who should not take Augmentin?
People who previously had an allergic reaction to penicillin should not take Augmentin. This is due to the amoxicillin clavulanic acid combination in the drug. In this case, the person may experience a serious allergic reaction. People with kidney disease should also be cautious when they use Augmentin.
What happens if I miss a dose of Augmentin?
What happens if I take too much Augmentin?
3 simple steps to request your Augmentin prescription
Book an Augmentin prescription request appointment.
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Augmentin prescription.
Pick up your Augmentin prescription.
Augmentin prescription pricing details
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Augmentin prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
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U.S. Food and Drug Administration. AUGMENTIN and AUGMENTIN XR Label Information. Accessed on October 16, 2023 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/050564s052,050720s025lbl.pdf.
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Mayo Clinic. Amoxicillin and Clavulanate (Oral Route): Side Effects. Accessed on October 16, 2023 at https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/amoxicillin-and-clavulanate-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20072709?p=1.
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DailyMed. AMOXICILLIN AND CLAVULANATE POTASSIUM- amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium tablet, film coated. Accessed on October 16, 2023 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=59979859-8c9b-4173-a5e3-2e6312fd9d79.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.