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
