Augmentin is prescription medication composed of two drugs: amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. It is classified as a penicillin and treats various infections, including sinusitis, ear infections, respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections and skin and skin structure infections. Because of its activity in the body, Augmentin may produce many effects.
Bacterial Death
Amoxicillin blocks the formation of the cell wall of bacteria causing the bacteria to eventually die. Clavulanic acid binds to bacterial enzymes called beta lactamases. Beta lactamases bind to amoxicillin and inactivate it, but clavulanic acid will inhibit this action allowing amoxicillin to have an expanded spectrum of activity. Patients with infections that are resistant to amoxicillin may be prescribed this drug.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect that may occur with the use Augmentin. The "Drug Information Handbook" reports that up to 34 percent of patients may experience this unwanted side effect. Patients should drink plenty of fluids to avoid become dehydrated. Diarrhea that lasts or more than three days should be reported to a physician. If the patient develops bloody stools, he should seek medical care immediately.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting may occur in users of Augmentin. About 5 percent of individuals using Augmentin may develop these undesired side effects. Abdominal pain may also be seen in about 5 percent of patients. The patient may take the medication with milk or food to avoid these side effects. The patient should inform a physician if these symptoms worsen or become severe. If the patient develops a fever along with nausea and vomiting, she may have an infection and require medical attention.
Rash and Hives
A skin rash commonly appears in about 5 percent of individuals. According to Drugs.com, diaper rash may occur in children. Hives on the skin may also occur in up to 10 percent of individuals. These skin manifestations should be reported to a physician right away because it may be a sign of an allergic reaction. If these side effects are due to allergy, most likely a penicillin allergy, the patient must discontinue the medication immediately. The patient must not be given Augmentin or any other medication containing penicillin. Patients may also be allergic to another class of medications called the cephalosporins, such as Keflex or Duricef. The physician can determine an alternative that is safe.
Vaginal Infection
Vaginitis, which is an inflammation or infection of the vagina, may occur in up to 10 percent of patients taking Augmentin, states the "Drug Information Handbook." Symptoms of vaginitis include itchiness, pain and discharge. Vaginal mycosis, a vaginal infection, may also occur in about 5 percent of individuals. If the patient experiences symptoms of a vaginal infection, she should contact a physician; the physician can determine if the patient requires medical treatment.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- Drugs.com: Augmentin Side Effects
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