Amoxicillin clavulanate 875, a widely prescribed antibiotic, is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. This medication is used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. As a broad-spectrum antibiotic, it is effective against a range of bacteria, including those that cause pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis.
The amoxicillin component of the medication works by stopping the growth of bacteria, while the clavulanate potassium component inhibits the production of beta-lactamase, an enzyme that can inactivate amoxicillin. This combination allows amoxicillin clavulanate 875 to effectively combat bacteria that would otherwise be resistant to amoxicillin alone.
Uses of Amoxicillin Clavulanate 875
Amoxicillin clavulanate 875 is commonly prescribed for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including:
- Respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis
- Skin infections, such as cellulitis and impetigo
- Urinary tract infections, such as pyelonephritis and cystitis
- Ear infections, such as otitis media
- Dental infections, such as periodontitis and abscesses
Side Effects of Amoxicillin Clavulanate 875
Like all medications, amoxicillin clavulanate 875 can cause side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Headache and dizziness
- Skin rash and itching
- Allergic reactions, such as hives and difficulty breathing
Less common but more serious side effects include:
- Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection, which can cause diarrhea and colitis
- Liver damage and abnormal liver function tests
- Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a rare skin and mucous membrane disorder
Precautions and Contraindications
Amoxicillin clavulanate 875 should be used with caution in patients with:
- Penicillin allergy or hypersensitivity
- Cephalosporin allergy or hypersensitivity
- Mononucleosis or other viral infections
- Liver or kidney disease
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Contraindications for amoxicillin clavulanate 875 include:
- Known allergy to penicillins or cephalosporins
- History of cholestatic hepatitis or liver damage associated with amoxicillin clavulanate
Key Points
- Amoxicillin clavulanate 875 is a combination antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.
- The medication works by stopping bacterial growth and inhibiting beta-lactamase production.
- Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain, and skin rash.
- Serious side effects include C. diff infection, liver damage, and severe allergic reactions.
- The medication should be used with caution in patients with penicillin allergy, liver or kidney disease, and pregnancy or breastfeeding.
| Classification | Description |
|---|---|
| Antibiotic Class | Penicillin-class antibiotic with beta-lactamase inhibitor |
| Indication | Treatment of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract, skin, and urinary tract infections |
| Dosage | 875 mg/125 mg tablets, taken orally every 12 hours for 7-14 days |
| Contraindications | Known allergy to penicillins or cephalosporins, history of cholestatic hepatitis or liver damage |
What is amoxicillin clavulanate 875 used to treat?
+Amoxicillin clavulanate 875 is used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.
What are the common side effects of amoxicillin clavulanate 875?
+Common side effects of amoxicillin clavulanate 875 include gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain, and skin rash.
Can I take amoxicillin clavulanate 875 if I am allergic to penicillin?
+No, you should not take amoxicillin clavulanate 875 if you are allergic to penicillin or have a history of severe allergic reactions to penicillins or cephalosporins.