Amoxicillin-clavulanate

Infections

Also known as Augmentin

This is amoxicillin plus clavulanate, a second ingredient that blocks the defenses some bacteria use to fight off amoxicillin. Doctors reach for it when a stubborn sinus, ear, skin, or urinary infection needs more muscle. The trade-off: it's harder on your stomach than plain amoxicillin, so take it with a meal. Like all antibiotics, it does nothing for viruses like colds.

How to take it

When

Space doses evenly through the day, exactly as prescribed.

Food

Take it with food — this one is rough on an empty stomach.

Avoid

Don't take it if you've ever had a penicillin allergy — tell your doctor first.

Finish it

Finish the whole course, even when you feel better. Stopping early lets the infection come back.

Missed a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, ideally with a snack. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never double up.

Common side effects

Diarrhea — very common with this one
Nausea or upset stomach
Yeast infections
Headache

Call a doctor if

Trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives — this can be a serious allergic reaction. Get emergency help now.
Severe watery or bloody diarrhea, during treatment or even weeks after — this can be a serious gut infection (C. diff). Call your doctor; don't just take anti-diarrhea medicine.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or belly pain — this combo can rarely stress the liver. Call your doctor.
A widespread rash, blistering, or peeling skin — stop and call your doctor right away.

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.