Why is Augmentin prescribed?

Augmentin is used in the treatment of lower respiratory, middle ear, sinus, skin, and urinary tract infections that are caused by certain specific bacteria. These bacteria produce a chemical enzyme called beta lactamase that makes some infections particularly difficult to treat.

Augmentin ES-600, a stronger, oral-suspension form of the drug, is prescribed for certain stubborn ear infections that previous treatment has failed to clear up in children two and under, or those attending day care.

Augmentin XR is an extended-release form of the drug used to treat pneumonia and sinus infections.

How should you take Augmentin?

Augmentin should be taken every 8 or 12 hours, depending on the dosage strength. It may be taken with or without food, but taking it with meals or snacks will help prevent stomach upset. However, the extended-release form, Augmentin XR, should always be taken with food to improve absorption.

Your doctor will only prescribe Augmentin to treat a bacterial infection; it will not cure a viral infection, such as the common cold. It's important to take the full dosage schedule of Augmentin, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Augmentin and similar antibiotics.

Shake the suspension well. Use a dosing spoon or medicine dropper to give a child the medication; rinse the spoon or dropper after each use.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, and you take 2 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 5 to 6 hours later. If you take 3 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 2 to 4 hours later. Then go back to your regular schedule.

• Storage instructions...
  Store the suspension under refrigeration and discard after 10 days. Store tablets away from heat, light, and moisture.

User Reviews

Comment from: janine, 45-54 Female on Treatment for 1-6 months (Patient)
I had severe stomach and abdominal pain, and severe diarrea. Published: October 14, 2007 ::

Comment from: Joycey, 55-64 Female on Treatment for less than 1 month (Patient)
This is the best antibiotic out there for me. It clears my ear congestion up and sinus problems from my allergies better than anything else. I wish more doctors would prescribe this instead of pushing zpack. My internist wants to always prescribe regular amoxicillan and it just doesn't work for me. Published: October 06, 2007 ::

Comment from: tntaz37363, 45-54 Female on Treatment for less than 1 month (Patient)
Worked great on the sinus infection; however, horrible headache everytime I moved my head, or coughed, . . any movement. Published: November 10, 2007 ::

Comment from: 45-54 Female on Treatment for less than 1 month (Patient)
This works, but the stomach pain & nausea are bad side effects. Even taken with food, this drug causes me problems. Published: October 12, 2007 ::