Amox-Clav 400mg/5ml Susp 100ml

Manufacturer SANDOZ Active Ingredient Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Suspension(a moks i SIL in & klav yoo LAN ate) Pronunciation a moks i SIL in & klav yoo LAN ate
It is used to treat bacterial infections.
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Drug Class
Antibiotic, Beta-lactamase Inhibitor Combination
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Pharmacologic Class
Penicillin Antibiotic, Beta-lactamase Inhibitor
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Pregnancy Category
Category B
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FDA Approved
May 1984
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Amoxicillin and clavulanate is an antibiotic medication used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, such as ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by killing the bacteria that cause these infections. The clavulanate part helps the amoxicillin work better against certain bacteria that have become resistant to amoxicillin alone.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication Correctly

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 start of a meal to enhance its effectiveness and minimize the risk of stomach upset. Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better.

Before using the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well. Measure the liquid dose accurately 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 during storage, which may be normal for certain products. If you are unsure, consult 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.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Shake the suspension well before each use.
  • Measure the dose accurately using the provided measuring device (spoon or syringe), not a household spoon.
  • Take the medication with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
  • Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, 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.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Not typically the primary formulation for adults; adult dosing for 400mg/5ml suspension would be 5-10 mL (400-800 mg amoxicillin) every 12 hours or 5 mL (400 mg amoxicillin) every 8 hours, depending on infection severity. More commonly, 875 mg/125 mg tablet every 12 hours or 500 mg/125 mg tablet every 8 hours.
Dose Range: 400 - 875 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

mild_moderate_infection: 400 mg amoxicillin component every 8 hours or 800 mg amoxicillin component every 12 hours
severe_infection: 875 mg amoxicillin component every 12 hours (tablet form usually preferred)
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established for routine use; use with caution and specific guidance if necessary.
Infant: 25-45 mg/kg/day (amoxicillin component) divided every 12 hours or every 8 hours, depending on infection. For otitis media/sinusitis, 90 mg/kg/day (amoxicillin component) divided every 12 hours.
Child: 25-45 mg/kg/day (amoxicillin component) divided every 12 hours or every 8 hours. For otitis media/sinusitis, 90 mg/kg/day (amoxicillin component) divided every 12 hours. Max 1750 mg/day amoxicillin component.
Adolescent: If <40 kg, pediatric dosing by weight. If â‰Ĩ40 kg, adult dosing (e.g., 875 mg/125 mg tablet every 12 hours or 500 mg/125 mg tablet every 8 hours, or equivalent suspension dose).
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: CrCl >30 mL/min: No adjustment needed.
Moderate: CrCl 10-30 mL/min: 250-500 mg amoxicillin component every 12 hours.
Severe: CrCl <10 mL/min: 250-500 mg amoxicillin component every 24 hours.
Dialysis: Hemodialysis: 250-500 mg amoxicillin component every 24 hours, plus an additional dose during and at the end of dialysis. Peritoneal Dialysis: 250 mg amoxicillin component every 12 hours.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment guidelines; use with caution.
Moderate: No specific adjustment guidelines; use with caution and monitor liver function.
Severe: No specific adjustment guidelines; use with caution and monitor liver function closely. Contraindicated in patients with a history of amoxicillin/clavulanate-associated cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Amoxicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to bacterial lysis and death. Clavulanate potassium is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that protects amoxicillin from degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by many resistant bacteria, thereby extending amoxicillin's antibacterial spectrum.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Amoxicillin: Approximately 70-90%; Clavulanate: Approximately 60%
Tmax: Amoxicillin: 1-2 hours; Clavulanate: 1 hour
FoodEffect: Absorption is not significantly affected by food, but taking with food can reduce gastrointestinal upset.

Distribution:

Vd: Amoxicillin: 0.3-0.4 L/kg; Clavulanate: 0.2 L/kg
ProteinBinding: Amoxicillin: 17-20%; Clavulanate: 25%
CnssPenetration: Limited penetration into the CSF with non-inflamed meninges; increased penetration with inflamed meninges.

Elimination:

HalfLife: Amoxicillin: 1-1.5 hours; Clavulanate: 1 hour (both prolonged in renal impairment)
Clearance: Primarily renal clearance for amoxicillin; renal and non-renal clearance for clavulanate.
ExcretionRoute: Renal (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion) for amoxicillin; renal and non-renal for clavulanate.
Unchanged: Amoxicillin: 50-70% excreted unchanged in urine within 6 hours; Clavulanate: Approximately 25-40% excreted unchanged in urine.
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Rapid (within 1 hour)
PeakEffect: Within 1-2 hours
DurationOfAction: Dependent on half-life and dosing frequency (typically 8-12 hours)

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

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 immediately or seek medical attention:

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 drug-induced enterocolitis syndrome, a type of allergic reaction, 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. If you notice:
+ Dark urine
+ Tiredness
+ Decreased appetite
+ Upset stomach or stomach pain
+ Light-colored stools
+ Vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes
contact your doctor right away.
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. Seek 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

All medications can cause side effects, but many people experience no side effects or only minor ones. If you are concerned about any side effects or if they persist, contact your doctor or seek medical attention. Common side effects include:

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, 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.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, dizziness.
  • Severe or watery diarrhea, especially if it contains blood or mucus, which may occur even weeks after stopping the medication (could be C. difficile infection).
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, severe stomach pain, or persistent nausea/vomiting (signs of liver problems).
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding (if also taking blood thinners like warfarin).
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

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.
If you have kidney disease or any history of kidney problems.
If you have experienced liver problems or jaundice (turned yellow) while taking this medication in the past.
If you have been diagnosed with mononucleosis (mono).
If you are currently taking probenecid or any other medications that may interact with this drug.

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 medications. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you are taking this drug for an extended period, your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your condition.

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 of this drug is a change in tooth color to a yellow-gray-brown hue, which has been reported primarily in children. In most cases, the discoloration lessens or disappears with regular brushing or dental cleaning. If you notice any changes 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, consider using 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.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
  • Electrolyte imbalance
  • Crystalluria (in severe cases, leading to renal failure)
  • Convulsions (rare, in patients with impaired renal function or high doses)

What to Do:

In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222). Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis can remove amoxicillin and clavulanate from circulation.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Warfarin (increased INR, bleeding risk)
  • Methotrexate (increased methotrexate levels and toxicity)
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Moderate Interactions

  • Allopurinol (increased incidence of rash)
  • Probenecid (increased and prolonged amoxicillin blood levels)
  • Oral Contraceptives (theoretical reduction in efficacy, consider backup method)
  • Mycophenolate Mofetil (reduced mycophenolic acid concentration)

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

History of hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins or cephalosporins

Rationale: To prevent severe allergic reactions.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy

Renal function (CrCl)

Rationale: To guide dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment.

Timing: Prior to initiation, especially in elderly or those with known renal issues

Hepatic function (ALT, AST, bilirubin)

Rationale: To assess baseline liver status, especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or history of drug-induced liver injury.

Timing: Prior to initiation if risk factors present

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Routine Monitoring

Clinical response to therapy

Frequency: Daily

Target: Resolution of signs and symptoms of infection

Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may indicate treatment failure, resistance, or alternative diagnosis.

Signs and symptoms of superinfection (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal candidiasis, C. difficile-associated diarrhea)

Frequency: Daily

Target: Absence of new infections

Action Threshold: Development of new symptoms requires evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin)

Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged therapy or in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment

Target: Within normal limits or stable

Action Threshold: Significant elevation may require discontinuation.

Renal function tests (BUN, creatinine)

Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged therapy or in patients with pre-existing renal impairment

Target: Within normal limits or stable

Action Threshold: Significant changes may require dose adjustment or discontinuation.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Skin rash, itching, hives (signs of allergic reaction)
  • Severe or persistent diarrhea (may indicate C. difficile infection)
  • Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools (signs of liver injury)
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding (if on warfarin)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Amoxicillin/clavulanate is classified as 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. It is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when clearly needed, but should be used with caution.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Generally considered low risk; no increased risk of major birth defects observed.
Second Trimester: Generally considered low risk.
Third Trimester: Generally considered low risk; however, caution is advised near term due to theoretical risk of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (rare) or inhibition of platelet aggregation (theoretical, not clinically significant).
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Lactation

Both amoxicillin and clavulanate are excreted in small amounts into breast milk. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Monitor breastfed infants for potential adverse effects.

Infant Risk: Low risk. Potential for mild gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, candidiasis/thrush) or allergic sensitization in the infant. Benefits of breastfeeding generally outweigh potential risks.
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Pediatric Use

This 400mg/5ml suspension formulation is commonly used in pediatric patients. Dosing is weight-based and varies by infection type and severity. Close attention to accurate dosing and monitoring for side effects (e.g., diarrhea, rash) is crucial.

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Geriatric Use

No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Dose adjustment is necessary in elderly patients with renal impairment, as age-related decline in renal function is common.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Always shake the oral suspension well before each dose to ensure uniform distribution of the medication.
  • Refrigerate the reconstituted suspension and discard after 10 days to maintain potency and stability.
  • Taking the medication with food can significantly reduce gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and diarrhea.
  • This medication is ineffective against viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu); avoid inappropriate use to prevent antibiotic resistance.
  • Patients should be advised to report any signs of severe diarrhea, especially if bloody or watery, as it could indicate Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can occur even weeks after therapy.
  • Monitor for signs of cholestatic jaundice, which can occur during or shortly after treatment, and may be delayed for several weeks after cessation of therapy. It is more common in elderly males and with prolonged treatment.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Cephalosporins (e.g., Cefdinir, Cefuroxime, Ceftriaxone)
  • Macrolides (e.g., Azithromycin, Clarithromycin) for specific infections or penicillin allergy
  • Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin) for specific infections, generally reserved due to side effect profile
  • Tetracyclines (e.g., Doxycycline) for specific infections
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: $20 - $60 per 100 mL bottle of 400mg/5ml suspension
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 1 (Generic) or Tier 2 (Preferred Brand)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.