What is Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium?
Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium is a combination antibiotic used for a wide range of bacterial infections.
It can also be prescribed off-label to help relieve symptoms of vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, two inner ear conditions. These conditions are characterised by vertigo, dizziness, and nausea. Antibiotics aren’t the usual treatment for inner ear conditions; you’re only prescribed them if your doctor thinks a bacterial infection is the root cause.
How does Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium work?
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that inhibits the growth of the bacterial cell wall. This affects the structural integrity of the bacterial cell, making it more susceptible to damage and eventually leading to its death.[1]
Clavulanate potassium has little direct antibacterial activity and doesn’t kill many bacteria on its own, but it helps amoxicillin work better by blocking bacterial resistance.[1]
Will I get side effects using Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium?
When using Amoxicillin, there’s a risk you might get side effects, although not everyone will get them. Some of these effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Vaginal infection
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Taking Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium with food can reduce the risk of side effects. Any side effects you do get should go away once you stop treatment. For the full list of side effects, check the leaflet that comes with your medicine.
Can I have Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium with alcohol?
Although you can drink alcohol while taking Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium, it’s best to limit it. This is because alcohol can worsen side effects and slow down your recovery time.
What doses of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium are there?
Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium tablets is available in doses of: 875 mg of amoxicillin and 125 mg of clavulanate potassium, 500 mg of amoxicillin and 125 mg of clavulanate potassium, and 250 mg of amoxicillin and 125 mg of clavulanate potassium, but we only supply the 875 mg/125 mg dose. The usual regimen is to take one tablet twice a day.
Your doctor will give you more information on how long to take it for based on your symptoms and medical needs.
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