Understanding when Augmentin should not be used is crucial for your child's safety. Most importantly, avoid this medication if your child has had allergic reactions to penicillin-type antibiotics or previous liver problems with this specific medication.
Augmentin contraindications include absolute restrictions (true penicillin allergies, previous liver toxicity) and relative cautions (mono, kidney disease, PKU). Drug interactions are significant with warfarin, probenecid, and oral contraceptives. Understanding these helps ensure safe, effective treatment.
Any history of immediate hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, clavulanate, or other beta-lactam antibiotics
History of cholestatic jaundice, hepatitis, or liver dysfunction specifically related to amoxicillin-clavulanate use
As with all antibiotics, Augmentin may disrupt normal gut flora, increasing the risk for C. difficile colitis. Use caution in children with a history of C. diff infection. Severe or prolonged diarrhea should prompt immediate evaluation to rule out this complication.
Augmentin, like amoxicillin, should be avoided in children with suspected Epstein-Barr virus infection, as it may provoke a diffuse, non-allergic rash. Although not dangerous, the rash may be confused with a drug allergy and is better avoided by using a different treatment.
In children with significantly impaired kidney function, Augmentin may require dose adjustments or extended intervals between doses. The clavulanate component is cleared renally and can accumulate if not properly adjusted. Dosing should be guided by a pediatric specialist in such cases.
Some chewable tablets and suspensions may contain phenylalanine as part of the sweetener system, which is relevant for children with phenylketonuria (PKU). Always check the product labeling if this is a concern, especially with flavored chewables.
This medication is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. However, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding and need to give this medication to your child, it's always a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider to ensure it's the best choice for your specific situation.
Specific drugs: See description
Effect: Increased bleeding risk, elevated INR
How it happens: Enhanced anticoagulant effect through altered gut flora and vitamin K synthesis
Management: Monitor INR more frequently; consider warfarin dose adjustment
Specific drugs: See description
Effect: Increased amoxicillin levels and prolonged half-life
How it happens: Decreased renal tubular secretion of amoxicillin
Management: May require amoxicillin dose reduction
Specific drugs: See description
Effect: Reduced contraceptive efficacy
How it happens: Disruption of enterohepatic circulation by altering gut flora
Management: Recommend backup contraception during treatment
Specific drugs: See description
Effect: Increased methotrexate toxicity risk
How it happens: Reduced renal clearance of methotrexate
Management: Monitor methotrexate levels; consider dose adjustment
Specific drugs: See description
Effect: Higher incidence of rash
How it happens: Increased risk of skin reactions
Management: Monitor closely for skin reactions
No information available
No information available
Frequency
Continuous during first dose, then daily
Frequency
Monitor symptoms daily, labs if prolonged treatment
Frequency
Daily monitoring