Augmentin is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of infections, including sinusitis, strep throat, pneumonia, respiratory tract, ear infections, dental abscesses, skin infections, and STDs like gonorrhea and syphilis, infections of the genital and urinary tract.
Augmentin kills bacteria by destroying the cell walls of the invading microorganisms. However, Augmentin is not effective against viruses and fungi and there are a number of bacteria, the so-called "super bugs", that are resistant to penicillin antibiotics including Augmentin.
If you are allergic to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, check with your physician before taking Augmentin.
People with Cystic fibrosis are more prone to side effects from penicillin antibiotic like Augmentin.
Those who are using oral contraceptives should switch to other methods of contraceptives while taking Augmentin.
If you have ever had asthma, hives, hay fever, or other allergic reaction to penicillin consult with your physician before taking Augmentin.
Stop taking Augmentin if you experience reactions such as rash, fever, itching, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and or sores on the genitals.
It is imperative to take Augmentin for the entire course your physician has prescribed. Even if you feel better, you should to continue taking Augmentin.
Augmentin should not be taken on an empty stomach.
Tell your physician if you have ever had asthma, colitis, diabetes, or kidney or liver disease before taking Augmentin.
Side effects of Augmentin may include upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, colitis, confusion, convulsions, dizziness, hives, liver problems and jaundice, fungal infections, rash, tooth discoloration in children, and appetite loss.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your physician before taking Augmentin.
Nursing mothers should switch to bottle-feed while taking Augmentin.
Check with your doctor before combining Augmentin with the following:
Antacids
Beta-blockers
Blood thinning drugs
Chloramphenicol
Erythromycin
NSAIDs like Aleve or ibuprofen
Oral contraceptives
Probenecid
Tetracycline
Do not take Augmentin with carbonated drinks or fruit juice.
Augmentin may cause vitamin deficiency. It is recommended to take daily multivitamins while taking Augmentin.
ADULTS
250mg every 8 hours or 500-875mg every 12 hours.
CHILDREN
10-20mg per pound of body weight, in 3 divided doses, daily.
Symptoms of Augmentin overdose may include short breath, diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting.
If you suspect Augmentin overdose, seek medical attention right away.
Disclaimer:
The
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self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Please consult your licensed health care
provider regarding all medical problems. You should never stop taking a prescription
drug or alter the dosage or dosing schedule without first consulting your
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