Augmentin 375mg tablets are a prescription-only combination antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Active Ingredients & How It Works
Each film-coated tablet is composed of two primary medicines:
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Amoxicillin (250mg): A penicillin-type antibiotic that physically destroys bacteria by weakening and breaking down their cell walls.
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Clavulanic Acid (125mg): A beta-lactamase inhibitor. Some bacteria produce an enzyme (beta-lactamase) that destroys amoxicillin. Clavulanic acid blocks this enzyme, keeping the amoxicillin strong enough to kill the bacteria.
Common Uses
Doctors typically prescribe this medication short-term to treat:
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Respiratory Tract Infections: Severe sinus infections, tonsillitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
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Ear & Throat Infections: Middle ear infections (otitis media) and strep throat.
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Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bladder and kidney infections.
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Skin & Soft Tissue Infections: Boils, abscesses, cellulitis, and wound infections.
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Dental Infections: Severe tooth abscesses.
How to Take It
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With Food: Always take the tablet at the start of a meal or a light snack. This optimizes how the medicine is absorbed and significantly reduces stomach upset or nausea.
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Swallow Whole: Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Drink half a glass of water with it.
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Complete the Full Course: Even if your symptoms completely disappear after a few days, you must finish the exact amount prescribed by your healthcare provider. Stopping too early can cause the remaining bacteria to multiply, leading to a harder-to-treat, antibiotic-resistant infection.
Common Side Effects & Contraindications
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Side Effects: Mild diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, or skin rashes are common. If you experience severe, watery, or bloody diarrhea, contact your doctor immediately.
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Penicillin Allergies: Do not take this medication if you have a known history of severe allergic reactions to penicillin, cephalosporins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
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Medical History: Inform your doctor before taking this if you have liver disease, kidney conditions, or a history of jaundice.
