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Augmentin |
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What is Augmentin and why is it 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. If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Augmentin. You may be allergic to it, and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take the drug and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately. How should you take Augmentin? Follow your doctors directions for taking 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. Be sure to take all the medicine your doctor has prescribed, even if you begin to feel better. 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. Store the suspension under refrigeration and discard after 10 days. Store tablets away from heat, light, and moisture. Are there any Augmentin side effects? Augmentin side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Augmentin side effects may include diarrhea/loose stools, nausea, and skin rashes and hives. Less common Augmentin side effects may include abdominal discomfort, anemia, arthritis, black "hairy" tongue, blood disorders, fever, gas, headache, indigestion, intestinal inflammation, itching, itching or burning of the vagina, joint pain, muscle pain, skin inflammation, skin peeling, sores and inflammation in the mouth and on the tongue and gums, stomach inflammation, vomiting, and yeast infection. Rare Augmentin side effects may include agitation, anxiety, behavioral changes, blood in the urine, change in liver function, confusion, convulsions, dizziness, hyperactivity, insomnia, kidney problems, and tooth discoloration. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Augmentin? If Augmentin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Augmentin may react with the antigout medication Benemid, resulting in changes in blood levels. A reaction with another antigout drug, Zyloprim, may cause a rash. Notify your doctor if you are taking either of these drugs. Like many antibiotics, Augmentin may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. You may want to take additional measures while taking Augmentin. Are there any special warnings about Augmentin? Augmentin and other penicillin-like medicines are generally safe. Anyone with liver, kidney, or blood disorders is at increased risk when using this drug. Alternative choices may be available to your doctor. If you have diabetes and test your urine for the presence of sugar, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist if this medication will interfere with the type of test you use. Allergic reactions to this medication can be serious and possibly fatal. Let your doctor know about previous allergic reactions to medicines, food, or other substances before using Augmentin. If you experience a reaction, report it to your doctor immediately and seek medical treatment. If you develop diarrhea while taking Augmentin, inform your doctor. It could be a sign of a potentially dangerous form of bowel inflammation. Some formulations of Augmentin contain phenylalanine. If you have the hereditary disease phenylketonuria, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this drug. |
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