Co-amoxiclav (amoxicillin with clavulanic acid)
Amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid for bites, skin, sinus, chest, abdominal and pelvic infections. 625 mg three times daily orally or 1.2 g IV every 8 hours.
Common brands in Pakistan: Augmentin. Brand availability changes; check with your pharmacy.
On this page
Uses
- Animal and human bites (covers Pasteurella and mouth anaerobes).
- Cellulitis of the face, diabetic foot (mild), sinusitis not responding to amoxicillin.
- Aspiration and hospital-acquired pneumonia (per policy).
- Intra-abdominal and pelvic infection, open fractures (per policy).
Adult dose
| Route | Dose |
|---|---|
| Oral | 625 mg (500/125) 3 times daily, usually for 5–7 days |
| IV | 1.2 g every 8 hours |
Children's dose
| Route | Dose |
|---|---|
| Oral | Amoxicillin component 20–30 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses (higher for some infections), using the syrup strength on the bottle |
| IV | 30 mg/kg every 8 hours (max 1.2 g per dose) |
Kidney and liver
- Creatinine clearance below 30: reduce frequency (every 12 hours).
- Can cause cholestatic jaundice, especially in older men and longer courses.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Generally safe; some guidance avoids it in preterm rupture of membranes (necrotising enterocolitis risk).
Side effects and cautions
- Diarrhoea (more than amoxicillin), nausea, thrush.
- Liver injury (cholestatic hepatitis).
- Not for penicillin allergy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the dose of Augmentin 625?
One 625 mg tablet three times a day, usually for 5–7 days.
Why is co-amoxiclav used for dog bites?
It covers Pasteurella, staphylococci, streptococci and mouth anaerobes found in bite wounds.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.