What is Co-Amoxiclav?
It is a commonly prescribed antibiotic used for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections. This combination antibiotic has two ingredients, amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. These two work together to fight bacteria that shows resistance to amoxicillin alone. In the UK, Co-Amoxiclav is available under brand names such as Augmentin, and it is generally prescribed when a healthcare professional considers it appropriate for the infection.
How Does Co-Amoxiclav Work?
This medicine has Amoxicillin which is a penicillin-type an antibiotic, with clavulanic acid. Co Amoxiclav BNF works by interfering with the bacterial cell wall, eventually causing susceptible bacteria to die.
Some bacteria produce enzymes called beta-lactamases, which can break down BNF amoxicillin and make it less effective. Clavulanic acid blocks many of these enzymes, helping protect amoxicillin from destruction and extending its antibacterial activity.
Because of this combination, Co-Amoxiclav can be useful against certain infections caused by bacteria that would not respond adequately to amoxicillin alone.
What does Amoxiclav treat?
Co Amoxiclav BNF may be prescribed for several bacterial infections, including:
- Ear, nose and throat infections, such as sinusitis and middle-ear infections
- Respiratory tract infections, including certain cases of pneumonia
- Skin and soft-tissue infections
- Dental infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Certain infections involving the abdomen or pelvis
It is important to remember that Co-Amoxiclav treats bacterial infections only. It does not work against viral illnesses such as ordinary colds or influenza.
Dosage of co Amoxiclav
The appropriate dosage of this medicine depends on patient’s age, body weight, medical history, and the type and severity of infection. Co Amoxiclav dose for adults is often given as different strengths depending on the formulation. The dosages for children are given according to their body weight.
Augmentin should be taken exactly as prescribed. Taking it with a meal can help reduce stomach discomfort and improve tolerability. Do not stop treatment early simply because symptoms have improved unless your prescriber advises you to do so.
Co Amoxiclav side effects
Like other antibiotics, this medicine can cause side effects. Common effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach discomfort
- Indigestion
- Headache
- Mild skin rash
Taking Co Amoxiclav BNF tablets with food may help reduce nausea. Seek medical attention if you develop severe or persistent diarrhea, particularly during or after antibiotic treatment.
Rare but potentially serious reactions include:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Significant skin reactions
- Liver problems
- Inflammation of the bowel
Precautions before Taking Co-Amoxiclav
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you previously experienced an allergy to penicillin, amoxicillin, clavulanic acid or other antibiotics before you take Co Amoxiclav.
- If you have had liver problems associated with antibiotics or kidney diseases, you need to talk to your doctor before getting Co-Amoxiclav buy online UK.
- Co Amoxiclav in pregnancy should be taken only when prescribed by a doctor. A strict medical supervision is required.
- Take Co Amoxiclav when breastfeeding only when it is given by a doctor.
- Elderly patients must consult their doctor before taking this medicine as they are at high risk of developing severe side effects.
Drug Interactions of Co Amoxiclav BNF
Co-Amoxiclav can interact with certain medicines. Inform your healthcare professional if you take:
- Warfarin or other anticoagulants
- Methotrexate
- Allopurinol
- Probenecid
- Mycophenolate mofetil
Your doctor may need to monitor you more closely or adjust treatment depending on the medicines involved.
Can you drink alcohol on Co-Amoxiclav antibiotics?
It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking Co-Amoxiclav, as it may worsen side effects such as nausea, stomach upset, dizziness, or diarrhea. You can consume alcohol in small amount while being on the medicine, but it is safe to wait until the antibiotic course is completed.
How long does Co Amoxiclav BNF take to work?
Co-Amoxiclav (Augmentin) usually starts fighting the infection within a few hours, but you may not notice symptom improvement for 2–3 days. If you’re not feeling better after 3 days or your symptoms are worsening, contact your doctor.
Does Co Amoxiclav make you sleepy?
Co-Amoxiclav does not commonly cause sleepiness, but some people may feel tired or dizzy while taking it. If you experience severe drowsiness, confusion, or other unusual symptoms; contact your doctor.
Does Co Amoxiclav make you tired?
Yes, co-Amoxiclav can sometimes make you feel tired or weak, although fatigue is not one of its most common side effects. The infection itself can also cause tiredness, so it may not necessarily be the antibiotic.
Does Co Amoxiclav cause diarrhea?
Yes. Co-amoxiclav commonly causes diarrhea because antibiotics can disrupt the normal bacteria in your gut. It is usually mild and temporary, but severe or persistent diarrhea—especially with blood or mucus—should be assessed by a doctor.


