AUGMENTIN 625MG TABS 14S

Augmentin 625mg contains amoxicillin 500 mg and clavulanic acid 125 mg, the standard adult formulation of amoxicillin-clavulanate, and one of the most dispensed antibiotics in Kenya's healthcare system.

This formulation contains a lower dose of amoxicillin than the 1g tablet but the same clavulanate dose (125 mg), resulting in a different amoxicillin-to-clavulanate ratio. It is prescribed three times daily (every 8 hours) for most community-acquired infections, offering better bacterial kill kinetics through time-dependent antimicrobial activity.

Augmentin 625mg is appropriate for mild-to-moderate infections, while the 1g twice-daily formulation is reserved for more severe or deep-seated infections. It combines the broad-spectrum activity of amoxicillin with the beta-lactamase inhibiting protection of clavulanate, covering beta-lactamase-producing Staphylococci, H. influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and many anaerobes.

Approved Indications

•       Acute otitis media

•       Acute bacterial sinusitis

•       Mild-to-moderate community-acquired pneumonia

•       Uncomplicated urinary tract infections

•       Skin and soft tissue infections

•       Dental infections and dentoalveolar abscess

•       Animal and human bite wound infections

•       Mild gynaecological infections

General Instructions

Take at the start of a meal to reduce GI side effects. Swallow whole with water. Doses are spaced every 8 hours (three times daily) for this formulation.

Dosage, Adults

One 625 mg tablet every 8 hours (three times daily) for 5–10 days depending on the infection. For dental infections: typically 5 days. For respiratory infections: 7–10 days.

Elderly Patients

No dose adjustment required for age alone. Dose-reduce if significant renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min).

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered; skip if the next dose is within 4 hours. Do not double dose.

Duration of Treatment

Complete the full course. Short courses (5 days) are appropriate for uncomplicated sinusitis and skin infections; longer courses (7–14 days) for respiratory or urinary tract infections.

Common Side Effects

•       Diarrhoea (less frequent than with the 1g formulation at equal clavulanate exposure)

•       Nausea and stomach cramps

•       Skin rash (non-allergic maculopapular)

•       Flatulence

Less Common Side Effects

•       Vaginal candidiasis

•       Headache

•       Raised liver enzymes (AST/ALT)

Serious / Seek Immediate Medical Attention

•       Anaphylaxis (severe penicillin allergy), emergency

•       Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea (CDAD)

•       Cholestatic hepatitis (clavulanate-related)

•       Stevens-Johnson syndrome / TEN (rare)

•       The 625 mg formulation has a lower amoxicillin-to-clavulanate ratio than the 1g formulation; clavulanate is the main driver of GI intolerance and hepatic effects.

•       Three-times-daily dosing requires patient commitment, poor adherence leads to subtherapeutic levels and treatment failure.

•       Monitor renal function in elderly patients or those with known CKD.

•       Avoid in patients with history of Augmentin-induced jaundice.

•       Prolonged use or repeated courses increase risk of superinfection and cholestatic hepatitis.

•       Pregnancy: Category B, use when clinically indicated.

Always inform your pharmacist and prescriber about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking.

Warfarin: Increased anticoagulant effect, monitor INR

Methotrexate: Risk of methotrexate toxicity due to reduced renal clearance

Oral contraceptives: Possible reduced efficacy, advise additional contraception

Probenecid: Increases amoxicillin levels

Allopurinol: Increased skin rash risk

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Prescription Only Medicine (POM) in Kenya. Pharmily dispenses against a valid prescription only.

Augmentin 625mg (the 500/125 ratio) is prescribed three times daily and remains the workhorse Augmentin formulation for mild-to-moderate infections in Kenya. The main counselling distinction from the 1g formulation is the dosing frequency, three times versus twice daily. Non-adherence to the three-times-daily regimen is a common cause of treatment failure in the community setting.

When dispensing, confirm the prescribed duration is appropriate for the indication. Prescriptions for > 14 days warrant pharmacist enquiry; prolonged courses elevate cholestatic hepatitis risk substantially. The same food-taking counselling applies as for the 1g formulation, as does the avoidance in patients with a prior history of Augmentin-induced liver injury.

Can I take Augmentin 625mg for a toothache?

A: Augmentin 625mg is one of the antibiotics of choice for dental infections and dentoalveolar abscesses in adults. However, antibiotics treat the bacterial infection; they do not treat the underlying dental problem. You must see a dentist as soon as possible for definitive dental treatment.

My child was prescribed Augmentin 625mg, is this safe?

A: The 625mg tablet is a high-strength adult formulation. Children are usually given the weight-appropriate liquid (suspension) or a lower-strength formulation. Confirm with your paediatrician or pharmacist that this dose and form are appropriate for your child's weight.

I developed loose stools on day 2; should I stop?

A: Mild diarrhoea is common with Augmentin and does not usually require stopping the medicine. Continue taking it with food and stay hydrated. If the diarrhoea is severe, bloody, or accompanied by fever, stop the medicine and seek medical advice.

Is Augmentin safe for breastfeeding mothers?

A: Amoxicillin-clavulanate is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Small amounts pass into breast milk. Monitor the infant for signs of diarrhoea, thrush, or rash. Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if concerned.