Amox-Clav 200mg/5ml Susp 50ml
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely. Take your medication at the beginning of a meal to help it work effectively and reduce the risk of stomach upset. Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better.
Before using the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well. Measure the liquid dose carefully using the measuring device provided with the medication. If a measuring device is not included, ask your pharmacist for one to ensure accurate dosing.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the liquid suspension in the refrigerator, but do not freeze it. Discard any unused portion after 10 days. You may notice a color change in the medication over time, which may be normal for some products. If you are unsure, consult with your pharmacist. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Shake the suspension well before each use.
- Use an accurate measuring spoon or oral syringe provided with the medication, not a household spoon.
- Complete the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.
- Store the reconstituted suspension in the refrigerator and discard any unused portion after 10 days.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Amox-Clav 200mg/5ml Susp 50ml
- Amox-Clav 400mg/5ml Susp 75ml
- Amox-Clav 200mg/5ml Susp 100ml
- Amox-Clav ES 600mg/5ml Susp 125ml
- Amox-Clav ES 600mg/5ml Susp 75ml
- Amox-Clav 875-125mg Tablets
- Amox-Clav 400mg/5ml Susp 50ml
- Amox-Clav ES 600mg/5ml Susp 200ml
- Amox-Clav 200mg/5ml Susp 75ml
- Amox-Clav 250mg/5ml Susp 75ml
- Amox-Clav 250mg/5ml Susp 100ml
- Amox-Clav 250mg/5ml Susp 150ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Rarely, some allergic reactions can be fatal.
Signs of a type of allergic reaction called drug-induced enterocolitis syndrome, such as:
+ Vomiting within 1 to 4 hours after taking this medication
+ Diarrhea within 24 hours after taking this medication
+ Pale or gray skin
+ Feeling tired or unwell
+ Signs of low blood pressure, such as severe dizziness or passing out
Vaginal irritation or discharge
Fever or chills
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotics. However, in rare cases, a severe form called C. diff-associated diarrhea (CDAD) may occur, which can lead to a life-threatening bowel problem. If you experience:
+ Stomach pain
+ Cramps
+ Very loose, watery, or bloody stools
contact your doctor immediately. Before treating diarrhea, consult with your doctor.
Liver problems have been reported with this medication, and in rare cases, have been fatal. Seek medical attention right away if you notice:
+ Dark urine
+ Tiredness
+ Decreased appetite
+ Upset stomach or stomach pain
+ Light-colored stools
+ Vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes
Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious reactions, may occur. These reactions can affect body organs and be life-threatening. Get medical help immediately if you experience:
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin
+ Red or irritated eyes
+ Sores in your mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or any areas of skin
+ Fever
+ Chills
+ Body aches
+ Shortness of breath
+ Swollen glands
Other Possible Side Effects
Most people taking this medication do not experience side effects or only have mild side effects. However, if you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
For all patients taking this medication:
+ Diarrhea
+ Upset stomach
+ Vomiting
* For children:
+ Diaper rash
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing (seek immediate medical attention).
- Severe or watery diarrhea, especially if bloody or prolonged (may be a sign of C. difficile infection).
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools (signs of liver problems).
- Unusual bruising or bleeding.
Before Using This Medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
If you are allergic to penicillin, as this may impact your ability to take this medication.
Existing kidney disease, as this may affect how your body processes the medication.
Previous experiences with liver problems or jaundice (turning yellow) while taking this medication.
If you have been diagnosed with mononucleosis (mono).
If you are currently taking probenecid, as this may interact with the medication.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing health conditions and other medications. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
Precautions & Cautions
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this drug. If you have diabetes and test your urine glucose levels, consult with your doctor to determine the most suitable tests to use.
Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should discuss this condition with their doctor, as some products may contain phenylalanine.
Do not take this medication for longer than prescribed, as this may increase the risk of a second infection. A common side effect, particularly in children, is a change in tooth color to yellow-gray-brown. In most cases, this discoloration can be reduced or eliminated with regular brushing or dental cleaning. If you experience a change in tooth color, consult with your doctor.
Women taking birth control pills or other hormone-based contraceptives should be aware that this medication may reduce their effectiveness. To prevent pregnancy, use an additional form of birth control, such as a condom, while taking this drug.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Rash
- Hyperactivity
- Drowsiness
- Renal dysfunction (rare, with very large doses)
What to Do:
Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) immediately or seek emergency medical attention. Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis may be used to remove the drug from circulation in cases of severe renal impairment or massive overdose.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Warfarin (increased INR, bleeding risk)
- Methotrexate (increased methotrexate levels, toxicity)
- Allopurinol (increased incidence of rash)
Moderate Interactions
- Oral Contraceptives (potential reduced efficacy, though controversial)
- Probenecid (increases amoxicillin levels by decreasing renal tubular secretion)
- Mycophenolate Mofetil (reduced mycophenolate levels)
Minor Interactions
- Tetracyclines (may reduce amoxicillin's bactericidal effect)
- Chloramphenicol (may reduce amoxicillin's bactericidal effect)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To assess baseline kidney function, especially in elderly or those with pre-existing renal impairment, for dose adjustment.
Timing: Prior to initiation, if clinically indicated.
Rationale: To assess baseline liver function, particularly in patients with pre-existing hepatic disease, as hepatotoxicity is a rare but serious adverse effect.
Timing: Prior to initiation, if clinically indicated.
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Daily
Target: Resolution of infection symptoms (e.g., fever, pain, inflammation)
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms after 48-72 hours may indicate treatment failure or resistant organism.
Frequency: Daily
Target: Absence of significant adverse effects
Action Threshold: Development of severe rash, persistent diarrhea (especially watery/bloody), or signs of allergic reaction (e.g., angioedema, dyspnea) requires immediate evaluation and potential discontinuation.
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged therapy or in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment
Target: Within normal limits or stable baseline
Action Threshold: Significant elevation (e.g., >3x ULN) or signs of cholestasis/hepatitis warrant discontinuation and further investigation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Skin rash or hives (signs of allergic reaction)
- Severe or persistent diarrhea (may indicate Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea)
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools (signs of liver dysfunction)
- Unusual bruising or bleeding (if on warfarin)
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing (severe allergic reaction)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy (Category B). Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Amoxicillin and clavulanate are excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for potential adverse effects.
Pediatric Use
Dosing is weight-based and specific to the amoxicillin component. Different concentrations (e.g., 200mg/5ml, 400mg/5ml, 600mg/5ml) are available to facilitate accurate dosing for various age groups and infection severities. Careful calculation and use of appropriate measuring devices are crucial to avoid under- or overdosing.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustment needed based on age alone, but renal function should be assessed as elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal clearance. Dose adjustments are necessary for renal impairment.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always instruct patients to take with food or milk to minimize GI upset, especially diarrhea.
- Emphasize the importance of completing the full course of therapy, even if symptoms improve, to prevent resistance and relapse.
- Educate patients on proper storage of the reconstituted suspension (refrigeration, discard after 10 days).
- Be aware of the potential for C. difficile-associated diarrhea, which can occur during or even weeks after treatment.
- Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, which can range from mild rash to severe anaphylaxis.
- This formulation (200mg/5ml) is commonly used for pediatric patients, requiring careful weight-based dosing calculations.
Alternative Therapies
- Cephalosporins (e.g., Cefdinir, Cefuroxime)
- Macrolides (e.g., Azithromycin, Clarithromycin) - if beta-lactam allergy or specific atypical pathogens
- Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin) - for specific indications, generally avoided in pediatrics
- Other penicillins (e.g., Amoxicillin alone, Penicillin V) - if beta-lactamase producing strains are not suspected