High level view
Co-amoxiclav is a combination antibiotic made up of amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid. The clavulanic acid component inhibits many beta-lactamase enzymes that some bacteria produce, restoring the effectiveness of amoxicillin against otherwise resistant organisms. In the UK it is commonly supplied under the brand name Augmentin as well as in generic formulations.
Clinicians select co-amoxiclav when broader coverage is required than amoxicillin alone, when mixed aerobic and anaerobic organisms are suspected, or when local prescribing guidance recommends it. In advance of starting treatment check the sections on protective protocols and conditions that prevent administration of this treatment.
- Active substances: amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid
- Drug class: beta-lactam antibiotic with a beta-lactamase inhibitor
- UK names: generic co-amoxiclav; Augmentin for many branded preparations
A brief an overarching view of the material of the foundational facts
- Availability: Prescription Only Medicine (POM) in the UK; not for sale over the counter.
- Common tablets: 250 mg/125 mg and 500 mg/125 mg in community practice.
- Administration tip: taking doses with food often reduces stomach upset; see how to take notes.
- Allergy warning: avoid if you have a serious allergy to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics; review contrasymptoms.
Fast links: what to do when you miss a dose and keep your items in secure storage until you need them. organization and care guidance.
What it is prescribed for
Co-amoxiclav is used for a range of bacterial infections. Choice should align with local antimicrobial stewardship policies and, when available, be guided by culture and sensitivity results.
- Skin and tissue infection syndromes, including bite wounds and cellulitis
- Dental infections and selected prophylaxis in dental procedures
- Respiratory tract infections such as community-acquired pneumonia, bacterial sinusitis and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
- Otitis media (middle ear infection)
- Certain intra-abdominal and biliary infections, often as part of combination therapy
- Selected post-operative or hospital-acquired infections when recommended by local guidance
To help limit antimicrobial resistance, reserve broad-spectrum agents for cases in which they are clearly indicated.
Available formulations and dosage strengths
In the UK co-amoxiclav is distributed as oral tablets, pediatric liquid suspensions and intravenous formulations for hospital use.
- Tablets: commonly 250 mg/125 mg and 500 mg/125 mg (sometimes labelled by combined weight such as 375 mg and 625 mg).
- Oral suspensions for children: examples include 400 mg/57 mg per 5 ml after reconstitution for paediatric dosing.
- Intravenous preparations: used in inpatient settings for severe infections under clinical supervision.
Some countries use a 875 mg/125 mg tablet; this is not widely used in UK community prescribing. If you are unsure about a pack, ask a pharmacist to confirm the strength.
Administration and dosing
- Follow the exact regimen your prescriber gives you. Dose and duration depend on the infection, severity, renal function and local professional guidance.
- Common dosing schedules are twice-daily or three-times-daily; space doses evenly across the day.
- Taking doses with food can reduce gastrointestinal knock-on effects.
- Swallow standard tablets whole unless the product is specifically chewable or dispersible.
- Do not stop the course early without discussing with your prescriber, even if you feel better.
Example: an adult course frequently used in community practice for some respiratory infections is 500 mg/125 mg three times a day for 5 to 7 days, but your prescriber may choose a different dose or duration.
Medications that interact: essential real time interpersonal dialogue and exchanges enable quick problem solving. to stay mindful of
Tell your prescriber or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements you use to reduce factors that pose risks in social interaction.
- Methotrexate drug therapy: penicillins can reduce methotrexate clearance and raise toxicity risk; closer health monitoring may be required.
- Warfarin and other vitamin K antagonists: antibiotics may alter gut flora and affect INR; check INR during therapy and adjust dose as needed.
- Probenecid drug: can reduce renal excretion of amoxicillin and increase blood levels.
- Allopurinol: combined use has been linked to a higher chance of rash in some patients.
- Oral contraceptives: routine reduction in efficacy is not expected, but vomiting or severe diarrhoea may reduce absorption; use backup contraception if this occurs.
- Live oral typhoid vaccine: recent antibiotic use may reduce the effectiveness of live oral vaccines.
For allergy related information consult hazard controls and reasons to avoid this medication.
Workplace safety first: steps to take for Special Circumstances
- Always report any past allergic reactions to penicillins, cephalosporins or other beta-lactams to your clinician.
- Exercise caution in patients with liver disease or a history of co-amoxiclav related cholestatic jaundice.
- Patients with infectious mononucleosis are more likely to develop a rash with amoxicillin-containing products.
- Be alert for antibiotic-associated colitis including Clostridioides difficile; seek advice for severe or persistent diarrhoea, particularly if bloody.
- Maternal pregnancy and lactation: co-amoxiclav may be used when benefits outweigh risks; discuss this with the assistance of your prescriber.
- Driving and machinery: there are no routine restrictions, but do not drive if you feel dizzy or unwell.
- Athletes: antibiotic use is generally permitted; keep prescriptions and documentation if competing internationally.
Refer to the section on conditions under which this therapy should be avoided for absolute reasons to avoid therapy.
Not suitable for use
- Known hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, clavulanic acid, any penicillin, or history of severe reaction to other beta-lactam antibiotics
- Previous episode of cholestatic jaundice or severe hepatic dysfunction believed to be caused by co-amoxiclav
- Documented infectious mononucleosis (high risk of rash with amoxicillin)
Possible drug post use effects
Not all patients will experience harmful impacts. Common and important reactions include:
- Common: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence, a headache and skin rash; candida overgrowth in the mouth or vagina may follow antibiotic use.
- A rarer occurrence but serious: raised liver enzymes, hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice; severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.
Receive urgent medical care for difficulty breathing, facial or throat swelling, widespread rash, severe abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Stop the medicine and contact your prescriber if you suspect a serious reaction.
Recommended steps after skipping a dose
If you miss taking one dose take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not stack two doses to compensate for a i failed to take my dose. Continue with the regular schedule afterwards.
OD event details
Symptoms of overdose can include severe gastrointestinal upset, drowsiness or agitation, electrolyte imbalance and, rarely, seizures especially in patients with reduced kidney function. Crystalluria has also been reported. If you suspect an overdose seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services.
Storage capacity and disposal processes
- Tablets: store at normal room temperature, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Reconstituted oral suspension: usually refrigerated and used within the period shown on the label (commonly 7 to 10 days); do not freeze.
- Store all medicines where children cannot reach or see them.
- Return unused or out of date medicines to a pharmacy for safe disposal; do not throw them in household waste or pour them down drains.
Substitute antibiotics and related medications
Generic co-amoxiclav contains the same active ingredients as branded Augmentin. Selection of an a further option antibiotic depends on the infection, allergy status, resistance patterns and patient factors.
- Amoxicillin alone: narrower spectrum; useful when beta-lactamase producing organisms are not suspected.
- Cephalosporins (for example cephalexin, cefuroxime): options for some infections but consider cross-reactivity in patients with severe penicillin allergy.
- Macrolides (clarithromycin, azithromycin): varied options in patients with penicillin allergy or for atypical respiratory pathogens.
- Doxycycline: used for certain respiratory and soft tissue infections; avoid in pregnancy and young children unless advised.
- Nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim: commonly used for uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections.
- Metronidazole: often used for anaerobic coverage in abdominal or dental infections in combination regimens.
- Piperacillin-tazobactam: a broader spectrum, hospital-only intravenous option for severe infections, not for routine community use.
Price considerations in the UK: generic amoxicillin is usually cheaper than co-amoxiclav; hospital-only agents are substantially more expensive and administered under supervision. See prices and access for indicative figures in GBP.
Pricing and accessibility in the United Kingdom
Co-amoxiclav is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM). Cost and how you obtain it will depend on whether you use the NHS or a private provider.
- NHS prescriptions: there is a standard prescription charge per item in England (approximately 9.90 GBP for 2026-2025); many people are exempt. Prescriptions are usually free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for eligible residents.
- Private prescriptions and retail prices vary by pharmacy, pack size and brand. Indicative private retail ranges include:
- Generic co-amoxiclav 500 mg/125 mg, 21 tablets: roughly 6 to 20 GBP
- Augmentin branded 500 mg/125 mg, 21 tablets: roughly 25 to 45 GBP
- Oral suspension 400 mg/57 mg per 5 ml (one bottle): approximately 6 to 18 GBP after reconstitution
- Typical private prices for some multiple options:
- Amoxicillin 500 mg, 21 capsules: about 2 to 6 GBP
- Doxycycline 100 mg, 14 capsules: about 5 to 12 GBP
- Clarithromycin 500 mg, 14 tablets: about 6 to 15 GBP
- Nitrofurantoin 100 mg MR, 14 capsules: about 8 to 18 GBP
These figures are approximate and subject to change. Online pharmacies and private clinics should be UK-registered and may add consultation or dispensing fees on top of medicine costs.
Comprehensive notes on UK law and regulation
- Co-amoxiclav/Augmentin is classified as a Prescription Only Medicine (POM) and must not be sold without a prescription in the UK.
- Obtain via an NHS or private prescription from a UK-registered prescriber. Online services must be regulated and linked to a registered dispensing pharmacy.
- Legitimate UK pharmacies and dispensers display General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration details and a UK contact address; check the GPhC register if unsure.
- Direct advertising of POMs to the public is restricted in the UK; be cautious of overseas or unregulated sellers.
- When travelling carry medicines in original packaging with your prescription; retain documentation for sport or regulated activities.
- Dispose of unused antibiotics by returning them to a pharmacy for safe, environmentally responsible disposal.
The questions people ask most
- Can I drink alcohol while taking co-amoxiclav? Moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to cause a direct the exchange between people, but avoid alcohol if you feel unwell while on antibiotics.
- When will I start to feel better? Many people notice improvement within 48 to 72 hours; contact your prescriber if symptoms worsen or fail to improve.
- Does it affect hormonal contraception? A routine loss of contraception effectiveness is not expected, but vomiting or severe diarrhoea may impair absorption. Use backup contraception if this happens and for 7 days after symptoms resolve.
- Should I take probiotics? Some people take probiotics to reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Evidence is mixed; check with a pharmacist before starting them.
- Can I drive while taking co-amoxiclav? There are no standard driving restrictions, but do not drive if you experience dizziness or feel generally unwell.
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