Augmentin, Augmentin ES-600 and Augmentin XR are brand names for a combination antibiotic drug manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Each type of Augmentin contains specific amounts of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium that are highly effective against specific types of bacterial infections, says Drugs.com.
Effects
Amoxicillin is a member of the penicillinlike class of antibiotic drugs manufactured to kill bacteria that produce a substance called beta-lactamase. While beta-lactamase can make amoxicillin and other antibiotics less effective, the clavulanate in Augmentin inhibits the effect of the beta-lactamase and lets amoxicillin do its job more effectively.
Indications
Doctors prescribe Augmentin for a wide variety of bacterial infections caused by beta-lactamase-producing bacteria. These organisms may infect the ears, nose, throat and sinuses. Augmentin also effectively treats bronchitis, pneumonia, bladder infections and bacterial infections of the skin and skin structures, says Drugs.com.
Adverse Effects
Some people experience mild side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or a mild skin rash when they take Augmentin, notes Medline Plus. Females may develop a secondary vaginal yeast infection with discharge and itching. In some cases, Augmentin causes a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. It's important to seek medical attention immediately for any facial or lip swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, wheezing or swallowing trouble.
Drug Interactions
Augmentin interacts with oral contraceptives, or birth control pills, in a way that may reduce the effectiveness of the birth control. A gout medication called probenecid increases the blood level of Augmentin, so it's not advisable to take these drugs together, says Rx List. People who are on allopurinol, another gout medication, have a higher risk of developing a rash when they take Augmentin.
Warnings
Patients allergic to other antibiotics are at higher risk of experiencing anaphylaxis after they take Augmentin. All patients should notify their doctors of any history of allergies to ampicillin, dicloxacillin, oxacillin or carbenicillin, cautions Rx List. Those who have developed a severe rash or other allergic symptoms after taking cephalosporin antibiotics, including cephalexin, cefdinir and cefprozil, are at increased risk of developing cross-sensitivity to Augmentin.
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