Augmentin Syrup Uses

Augmentin syrup is a medication that is used to treat various bacterial infections. It is a combination antibiotic in liquid form, ideal for children who have difficulty swallowing tablets. The following are some common and off-label uses of Augmentin Syrup:

Common Uses of Augmentin Syrup

1. Respiratory Tract Infections: Augmentin Syrup is commonly used for infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis.
2. Ear Infections: Augmentin Syrup can be used to treat middle ear infections (otitis media) and external ear infections (otitis externa).
3. Urinary Tract Infections: The use of Augmentin syrup is also effective against urinary tract infections, including cystitis.
4. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Augmentin Syrup can be used for various skin infections like cellulitis and impetigo.
5. Dental Infections: Augmentin syrup is also used for infections of the mouth and dental abscesses.
6. Bone and Joint Infections: Augmentin syrup may be used to treat osteomyelitis and septic arthritis.

Off-label Uses of Augmentin Syrup

1. Dental Prophylaxis: Augmentin syrup may be used to prevent bacterial endocarditis in certain high-risk patients undergoing dental procedures.
2. Mixed Infections: In cases where the infection involves multiple bacterial strains, including those susceptible to Augmentin Syrup, it might be used off-label.
3. Bites and Animal-Related Injuries: Augmentin syrup may be used to treat infected wounds, particularly those from animal bites.
4. Peritonitis: Augmentin Syrup might be used in the treatment of peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining) in combination with other appropriate medications.
5. Diverticulitis: Some healthcare providers may use Augmentin syrup as part of the treatment for diverticulitis, an inflammation of pouches in the colon wall.
6. Infective Endocarditis Prophylaxis: In specific situations, Augmentin Syrup might be prescribed to prevent infective endocarditis in high-risk individuals undergoing certain medical procedures.
7. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Augmentin Syrup could be used as part of the treatment for PID, a serious infection affecting the female reproductive organs.

Augmentin Syrup is one of the leading brands of Co-Amoxiclav (Amoxicillin and Clavulanic acid), manufactured and marketed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

Below are some available similar syrups that can be used as an alternative to Augmentin:

• Calamox : Bosch Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Amclav : Getz Pharmaceuticals Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
• Amoxi-Clav : Novartis Pharma (Pvt) Ltd.
• Co-Amoxi : Macter International (Pvt) Ltd.
• Fortecin : Searle Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
• Rite : Werrick Pharmaceuticals.
• Termibex : Highnoon Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd.
• Ultrex : Wilshire Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd.
• Zamovlav : Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd.
• Lavomox : Bloom Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Presently, Augmentin is available in Syrup, Tablets, Injection, and Drops forms.

Augmentin DS Syrup (312.5mg) Each 5ml Contains:

• Amoxicillin: 250mg
• Clavulanic acid: 62.5mg

Augmentin Syrup (165.25mg) Each 5ml Contains:

• Amoxicillin: 125mg
• Clavulanic acid: 31.25mg

Augmentin Tablet : 375mg, 625mg, and 1g strengths

Augmentin Injection : 1.2g and 600mg strengths

Augmentin Drops : 62.5mg strength

Augmentin syrup, like any medication, has contraindications, which are specific situations or conditions in which the use of the drug is not recommended or should be avoided.

1. Allergy to Penicillins: Augmentin syrup contains amoxicillin, which belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics. Individuals who have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to penicillins or cephalosporins should not take Augmentin, as they may be at risk of experiencing an allergic reaction.
2. History of Severe Allergic Reactions: If a person has experienced a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to penicillins or cephalosporins in the past, they should not use Augmentin.
3. History of Liver Problems: Augmentin is processed by the liver, so individuals with a history of liver disease or impaired liver function should use this medication with caution or avoid it altogether. In such cases, a lower dosage or an alternative treatment may be considered.
4. Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono): Augmentin is not recommended for use in patients with infectious mononucleosis (also known as mono) since it may lead to a rash.
5. Jaundice or Hepatitis: Individuals with a history of jaundice or hepatitis should avoid Augmentin, as it may worsen these conditions or interfere with liver function.
6. Severe Kidney Impairment: Augmentin is excreted from the body primarily through the kidneys. People with severe kidney impairment may need dose adjustments or alternative treatments to avoid potential complications.
7. Hypersensitivity to Clavulanic Acid: Some individuals may be hypersensitive to clavulanic acid, the other active ingredient in Augmentin, and should avoid its use.

Augmentin Syrup Dose for Adults and Children (over 12 years old):

• 1 to 2 teaspoons of Augmentin DS syrup every 8 hours.
• In some cases, higher doses may be prescribed depending on the severity of the infection.

Augmentin Syrup Dose for Children (6 to 12 years):

• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of Augmentin Syrup every 8 hours.
• Higher doses may be required for more severe infections.

Augmentin Syrup Dose for Children (1 to 6 years):

• Half a teaspoon (2.5 ml) of Augmentin Syrup every 8 hours.

Augmentin Syrup Dose for Children (9 months to 1 year):

• Half a teaspoon (2.5 ml) of Augmentin Syrup every 12 hours.

The mode of action of Augmentin involves its components working together to combat bacterial infections.

1. Amoxicillin: Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic that belongs to the beta-lactam group of antibiotics. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, a crucial protective layer surrounding bacterial cells. Bacterial cell walls are essential for maintaining the structural integrity and shape of the bacteria. Amoxicillin interferes with the formation of peptidoglycan, a key component of the cell wall, leading to its weakening and eventual destruction. As a result, bacteria become more susceptible to osmotic pressure and the immune system’s attack, ultimately leading to their death.
2. Clavulanic Acid: Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor. Beta-lactamase is an enzyme produced by some bacteria that can break down and inactivate certain antibiotics, including penicillins like amoxicillin. Clavulanic acid acts as a suicide inhibitor of beta-lactamase enzymes, irreversibly binding to them and preventing them from inactivating amoxicillin. This allows amoxicillin to remain effective against a broader range of bacteria, including those that would otherwise be resistant to amoxicillin alone due to beta-lactamase production.

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