Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium

Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium is a combination medicine that is used for treating various types of infections in adults and children. It is an antibiotic that works by preventing bacteria from making cell walls, which eventually causes the bacteria to die. This drug is available by prescription and comes in several different forms, including chewable tablets, tablets, and a liquid.

What Is Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium?

Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium (Augmentin®) is a prescription antibiotic medication. It is used to treat a variety of infections.
 
Augmentin ES-600® and Augmentin XR® are similar but slightly different products. This article applies only to regular amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium products (not ES or XR).
 
(Click What Is Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium include but are not limited to:
 
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Rashes or itching
  • Vomiting.
 
(Click Side Effects of Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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