General Description: A broad spectrum antibiotic used to treat many infections in dogs and cats. The combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid increases its effectiveness against many types of bacteria and is often used in skin and soft tissue infections as well as upper respiratory, bladder and dental infections (dogs). Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid is available in both oral drops and four sizes of tablets.
What is this drug?
An aminopenicillin combined with a beta-lactamase inhibitor to broaden its spectrum, including Staph infections; an antibiotic
Usually given by mouth
Reasons for prescribing:
Because of its broad spectrum nature, it is useful against many bacteria infections and is frequently used when bacteria sensitivity is unknown
Often used in: skin and soft tissue infections, upper respiratory infections and bladder infections in dogs and cats and dental infections in dogs
What dogs/cats should not take this medication?
If pet has had an allergic reaction to penicillin or another antibiotic before
Use with caution in very small animals who may be dehydrated or have kidney or heart disorders
Directions:
For liquids, shake well before accurately measuring the dose.
Give this medication with or without food.
Give medication as directed by your veterinarian. This medication is normally given two or three times daily.
Read and follow the label carefully.
Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed.
Tablets should not be split prior to use because air will cause them to deteriorate.
Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian directs. Finish the entire course of treatment.
Ideally, give the medication at the same time daily.
What if dose is missed?
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.
What to tell/ask veterinarian before giving medication?
Talk to your veterinarian about:
When will your pet need to be rechecked
What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
Risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:
If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
If your pet has experienced liver disease now or ever
If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet’s medicines can be given together.
If your pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings:
Store suspension in the refrigerator, though if it is mistakenly left out of the refrigerator for a day, it’s not a problem. Discard reconstituted suspension in 10 days.
Store tablets at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep away from heat and direct sunlight.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets. Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.
Do not use human form of this drug (Augmentin®) unless you have specific instructions from your veterinarian. It contains a different concentration of clavulanic acid than the veterinary form.
People with allergies to penicillins or beta-lactam antibiotics should not handle this drug since allergic reactions could occur from contact.
Potential side effects:
Nausea, decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhea may be experienced. Give the medication with food to reduce effect.
It is felt that this drug is safe to use (with caution) during pregnancy
Allergic reactions are rare, but if your pet shows irregular breathing, rash, fever, hives, scratching, puffiness or facial swelling, or anything else unusual, stop therapy and contact your veterinarian immediately
Can this drug be given with other drugs?
Yes, but possible interactions may occur with aminoglycosides, blood thinners, cephalosporins, chloramphenicol, dipyradamole, erythromycin, inflammation or pain medication (except narcotics), tetracyclines and probenecid.
If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian.
Overdosing?
Contact your veterinarian immediately if pet eats more than the prescribed amount.
What else should I know?
This is just a summary of information about amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. If you have any questions or concerns about amoxicillin-clavulanic acid or the condition it was prescribed for, contact your veterinarian.
As with all prescribed medicines, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid should only be given to the dog/cat for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.
©North American Compendiums Inc. 2009. All rights reserved
