Beta-lactamase inhibitor
Clavulanate with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Clavulanate (Clavulanate). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with 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 Beta-lactamase inhibitor agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Clavulanate at 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Clavulanate, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Clavulanate 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 Clavulanate during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how 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 Clavulanate regimen.
Will antibiotics make Clavulanate stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Clavulanate efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Clavulanate levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Clavulanate
More on Clavulanate
- With alcoholClavulanate and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Clavulanate be taken with food?
- Side effectsClavulanate side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideClavulanate dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Clavulanate start working?
- DurationHow long does Clavulanate last?
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