Clavam is used in the treatment of lower respiratory, middle ear, sinus, skin, and urinary tract infections that are caused by certain specific bacteria. These bacteria produce a chemical enzyme called beta lactamase that makes some infections particularly difficult to treat.

Clavam ES-600, a stronger, oral-suspension form of the drug, is prescribed for certain stubborn ear infections that previous treatment has failed to clear up in children two and under, or those attending day care.

Clavam XR is an extended-release form of the drug used to treat pneumonia and sinus infections.
Most important fact about Clavam

If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Clavam. You may be allergic to it, and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take the drug and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
How should you take CLAVAM (Amoxycillin/clavulanic acid, Co-Amoxiclav, Augmentin) without prescriptions

Clavam should be taken every 8 or 12 hours, depending on the dosage strength. It may be taken with or without food, but taking it with meals or snacks will help prevent stomach upset. However, the extended-release form, Clavam XR, should always be taken with food to improve absorption.

Your doctor will only prescribe Clavam to treat a bacterial infection; it will not cure a viral infection, such as the common cold. It's important to take the full dosage schedule of Clavam, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Clavam and similar antibiotics.

Shake the suspension well. Use a dosing spoon or medicine dropper to give a child Clavam; rinse the spoon or dropper after each use.

If you miss a dose CLAVAM (Amoxycillin/clavulanic acid, Co-Amoxiclav, Augmentin)

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, and you take 2 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 5 to 6 hours later. If you take 3 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 2 to 4 hours later. Then go back to your regular schedule.

Storage instructions...

Store the suspension under refrigeration and discard after 10 days. Store tablets away from heat, light, and moisture.
Clavam side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Clavam.

* Side effects may include:
Diarrhea/loose stools, nausea, skin rashes and hives

Why should Clavam not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to any penicillin medication, do not take Clavam.

Also avoid taking Clavam if it has ever given you liver problems or yellowing of the skin and eyes. Additionally, do not take Clavam XR if you have severe kidney problems or need dialysis.
Special warnings about Clavam

Clavam and other penicillin-like medicines are generally safe; however, anyone with liver, kidney, or blood disorders is at increased risk when using Clavam. Alternative choices may be available to your doctor.

If you have diabetes and test your urine for the presence of sugar, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist if Clavam will interfere with the type of test you use.

Allergic reactions to Clavam can be serious and possibly fatal. Let your doctor know about previous allergic reactions to medicines, food, or other substances before using Clavam. If you experience a reaction, report it to your doctor immediately and seek medical treatment.

If you develop diarrhea while taking Clavam, inform your doctor. It could be a sign of a potentially dangerous form of bowel inflammation.

Some formulations of Clavam contain phenylalanine. If you have the hereditary disease phenylketonuria, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Clavam.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Clavam

Clavam may react with the antigout medication Benemid, resulting in changes in blood levels. A reaction with another antigout drug, Zyloprim, may cause a rash. Notify your doctor if you are taking either of these drugs.

Like many antibiotics, Clavam may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. You may want to take additional measures while taking Clavam.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Clavam during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. Because there may be risk to the developing baby, doctors usually recommend Clavam to pregnant women only when the benefits of therapy outweigh any potential danger. Clavam appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Clavam is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing your baby until your treatment with Clavam is finished.
Recommended dosage for Clavam

ADULTS
Overdosage

Clavam is generally safe; however, large amounts may cause overdose symptoms. Suspected overdoses of Clavam must be treated immediately; contact your physician or an emergency room.

* Symptoms of Clavam overdose may include:
Diarrhea, drowsiness, kidney problems, overactivity, rash, stomach and abdominal pain, vomiting