Augmentin with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Augmentin (Amoxicillin/Clavulanate). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Amoxicillin, Clavulanate at 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Antibiotics agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Amoxicillin, Clavulanate at 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Amoxicillin, Clavulanate, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Augmentin is co-administered. Adjusted 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Augmentin during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Amoxicillin, Clavulanate is metabolised and may need a temporary 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Augmentin regimen.
Will antibiotics make Augmentin stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Augmentin efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Amoxicillin, Clavulanate levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
More on Augmentin
- With alcoholAugmentin and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Augmentin be taken with food?
- Side effectsAugmentin side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAugmentin dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Augmentin start working?
- DurationHow long does Augmentin last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.