Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate): What it treats and how to use it

Augmentin is a combo antibiotic of amoxicillin and clavulanate. Doctors prescribe it for ear infections, sinusitis, bronchitis, some pneumonias, skin infections and certain urinary tract infections. The clavulanate blocks bacterial enzymes that destroy amoxicillin, so Augmentin works against bacteria that plain amoxicillin can’t always beat.

How doctors dose Augmentin depends on the infection and patient. Common adult options are 500/125 mg twice daily or 875/125 mg twice daily. There’s also a 250/125 mg tablet and extended-release versions for some uses. For children the dose is weight-based and often given as a liquid; follow the prescription label or ask your pharmacist. Take Augmentin with food to cut nausea.

What to expect: stomach upset and diarrhea are the most common side effects. If you get loose stools, avoid stopping the drug abruptly without advice—sometimes diarrhea continues after antibiotics. Probiotics or yogurt may reduce gut symptoms, but check with your clinician first. Serious allergic reactions (hives, swelling, breathing trouble) are possible if you’re penicillin allergic; stop the drug and get emergency care.

Watch for rare but serious problems: severe diarrhea that won’t stop, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent stomach pain—these may signal liver injury or Clostridioides difficile infection and need urgent medical attention. Augmentin can raise liver enzymes and has been linked to cholestatic hepatitis in some people, especially older adults or after long courses.

Interactions and precautions: tell your provider if you’re on blood thinners like warfarin—antibiotics can affect INR and bleeding risk. If you have kidney problems, dosing may need adjustment. Cross-reactivity with cephalosporins is lower than once thought but still possible; if you had a severe penicillin reaction, avoid Augmentin.

Practical tips: finish the full course unless your doctor tells you otherwise—stopping early can cause relapse or resistance. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember but don’t double up. Store liquid suspension in the fridge and shake well before dosing; discard after the time on the label.

When Augmentin isn’t right: it won’t help colds or flu, which are viral. For mild infections many providers choose narrower antibiotics first to avoid overuse. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve in 48–72 hours on treatment, contact your clinician—sometimes a culture or different antibiotic is needed.

If you’re pregnant, Augmentin is commonly used and generally considered safe, but confirm with your obstetrician. For breastfeeding, small amounts pass into milk—most infants tolerate it, yet watch for rash or diarrhea.

Common treatment lengths vary: many uncomplicated ear or sinus infections use five to seven days, while pneumonia or complicated skin infections often need ten to fourteen days. Always follow your prescriber's timeframe. Never share your antibiotic or use leftovers for a new illness—this fuels resistance and can be dangerous.

That’s the practical guide. If you need help with dosing, side effects, or whether Augmentin is right for a specific infection, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.