Amoxicillin With Clavulanic Acid
Common brand name: Augmentin
Dental uses: Amoxicillin with clavulanic acid is used in dental infections caused by bacteria that are resistant to common penicillins (penicillin VK, ampicillin and amoxicillin). The clavulanic acid inhibits an enzyme produced by some bacteria that destroys penicillins.
Amoxicillin with clavulanic acid is used for complicated tooth and endodontic infections and abscesses, especially those extending into the sinuses, gums and bone. It frequently is used for gum infections against which other drugs have been shown to be ineffective.
It also is becoming a popular antibiotic prescribed in dental-implant cases when part of the implant is placed in the maxillary sinus. Many times a dentist will collect a sample of the infected area and send it to a medical laboratory for a culture and sensitivity test prior to prescribing Augmentin. For routine dental infections not caused by penicillin-resistant organisms, penicillin VK is still the drug of choice.
Dosages for dental purposes: The typical adult dose is 250 milligrams to 500 milligrams every eight hours for seven to 10 days.
Concerns and possible side effects: When prescribed for a week or more, amoxicillin with clavulanic acid produces a higher incidence of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and yeast infections (in women) than penicillin VK. About 10 percent of patients develop a rash from the amoxicillin component. Occasionally, amoxicillin temporarily turns the tongue a black color, a condition known as black hairy tongue. Amoxicillin and other penicillins must not be taken by people with documented allergies to these drugs. Allergic reactions can range from a mild rash to life-threatening closure of the airway and a fall in blood pressure.
