Amoxicillin/Clavulanate

(a-mox-i-sill-in/clav-yue-lan-ate)

Other names for this medication: Augmentin, Betacillin, Clavacillin, Clavamox, Umbrellin

Combination antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections

•Giving with food may help prevent stomach upset.

•Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite.

•It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if your animal starts feeling better.

•Do not give to rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, or other pocket pets. Amoxicillin can be harmful or fatal in these animals.

Description

•Antibiotic

‐Amoxicillin is an antibiotic similar to penicillin.

‐Clavulanate helps amoxicillin work better against certain bacteria.

•Available as tablets, chewable tablets, and oral suspensions

Uses

FDA-approved uses in animals:

•Bacterial skin and soft tissue infections in dogs and cats

•Bacterial dental infections in dogs

•Bacterial urinary tract infections in cats

At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used in different species or for other reasons (extra-label use).

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking

•Any conditions or diseases your animal currently has or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use:

•In animals that are allergic to it or other penicillins

•In rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, or other pocket pets. Amoxicillin can be harmful or fatal in these animals.

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

•Wear gloves or avoid handling if you are allergic to penicillin antibiotics.

How do I give this medication?

•Give with or without food. Giving with food may help prevent stomach upset.

•Shake liquids well before each dose.

•Measure liquids using an oral syringe, medicine cup, or dosing spoon. Do not use household measuring devices.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common – contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Vomiting

•Diarrhea

•Decreased appetite

Severe – stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

•Complete loss of appetite in cats. This can sometimes cause liver problems.

•Loss of coordination, tremors, or behavior changes

•Fever, rashes, trouble breathing, or pale gums. These may be signs of an allergic reaction.

How will I know it's working?

•Your animal should start feeling better within 1 to 2 days.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication will stop working within 24 hours of the last dose.

•It may last longer if your animal has reduced kidney function.

How long do I give it for?

This medication can be given for different lengths of time. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. You may need to refill the prescription.

•It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if your animal starts feeling better.

Overdose

Vomiting is the most likely effect of an overdose. Large overdoses can cause damage to the nervous system.

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

•If it is close to the time for the next dose:

‐Skip the missed dose.

‐Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

‐Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up doses or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store tablets at room temperature.

•If the tablets came in foil packets, only remove tablets from the foil immediately before giving. If your veterinarian told you to split the tablets, wrap any leftover pieces in the foil packet.

•Store unmixed powders at room temperature. Refrigerate after mixing with water.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

‐The chewable forms of this medication are meant to be appealing to animals. Secure storage that is well out of reach is important to prevent accidental overdose.

Disposal

Liquid forms should be thrown away 10 days after mixing with water.

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.