Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium, also known as augmentin, is a medication in a class of drugs known as penicillin-like antibiotics. This medication is used in the treatment of lower respiratory, middle ear, sinus, skin, and urinary tract infections that are caused by certain specific bacteria, reports PDRHealth.com. Amox/K Clav should be taken for the entire time for which it is prescribed. Discontinuing therapy before the full course is completed may increase the risk of additional infection. There are some side effects of this medication of which patients should be aware.
Stomach Discomfort
Amox/K Clav 875 mg may cause stomach discomfort in some patients. Symptoms can include mild diarrhea, gas, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, states Drugs.com. Taking this medication with food may help to lessen these effects. Adhering to a bland diet and eating smaller meals more frequently may help diminish stomach discomfort. Severe vomiting or diarrhea should be reported to a physician. It may lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous.
Headache
Some patients may experience headache while taking this medication. This side effect may be temporary until the body adjusts to Amox/K Clav. Those who experience headache should consult their physician to find out if an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen would be safe to take for the relief of headache pain and discomfort. A severe headache, or a headache that is accompanied by fever, sore throat, and a red blistering skin rash may be a sign of a serious reaction to this medication and should be reported to a physician immediately.
Vaginal Yeast Infection
According to Drugs.com, this medication may cause vaginal yeast infection in women. This occurs as the antibiotic destroys some of the body's good bacteria, creating an environment more susceptible to the overgrowth of candida, or yeast. Prevention measures include taking a daily probiotic supplement or eating foods that are naturally high in good bacteria, such as yogurt. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include vaginal itching, redness, inflammation, pain during intercourse, and a thick white colored discharge. A vaginal yeast infection can be diagnosed by pelvic examination and inspection of vaginal cells under a microscope to determine the presence of yeast.
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