From the Guidelines
No, Augmentin is not ampicillin, though they are related. Augmentin is a combination antibiotic containing amoxicillin (a penicillin-class antibiotic similar to ampicillin) plus clavulanic acid, which is a beta-lactamase inhibitor 1. The addition of clavulanic acid allows Augmentin to overcome certain bacterial resistance mechanisms that would normally inactivate amoxicillin alone. While ampicillin and the amoxicillin component of Augmentin are both aminopenicillins with similar antimicrobial coverage, they are distinct medications with different pharmacokinetic properties. Amoxicillin generally has better oral absorption than ampicillin 1.
Some key points to consider when prescribing Augmentin include:
- The dosage and formulation of Augmentin, which can vary depending on the infection being treated and the patient's age and weight 1
- The potential for resistance to Augmentin, particularly in bacteria that produce beta-lactamase enzymes 1
- The importance of completing the full course of treatment with Augmentin to ensure effective treatment of the infection and prevent the development of resistance 1
In terms of specific dosage recommendations, Augmentin is typically prescribed at a dose of 875/125 mg twice daily for adults, and 25 mg/kg/d of the amoxicillin component in 2 divided doses for children 1. It is essential to follow the recommended dosage and treatment duration to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
From the FDA Drug Label
Amoxicillin, USP is a semisynthetic antibacterial (amoxicillin), an analog of ampicillin, with a broad spectrum of bactericidal activity against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. Amoxicillin is an analog of ampicillin, derived from the basic penicillin nucleus, 6-aminopenicillanic acid
Augmentin is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid.
- Amoxicillin is an analog of ampicillin. Therefore, Augmentin contains an ampicillin analog, but Augmentin itself is not ampicillin 2 3.
From the Research
Definition and Composition of Augmentin
- Augmentin is a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent that consists of a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid 4.
- It is used to treat various bacterial infections, including community-acquired respiratory tract infections, and is available in different formulations, such as tablets and oral suspensions.
Relationship between Augmentin and Ampicillin
- Augmentin is not ampicillin, but it does contain a similar antibiotic called amoxicillin, which is a type of penicillin 5.
- Amoxicillin is similar to ampicillin in terms of its mechanism of action, but it has a broader spectrum of activity and is more resistant to beta-lactamase enzymes 6.
- The combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid in Augmentin provides a synergistic effect, enhancing the antibacterial activity of amoxicillin and extending its spectrum of activity to include beta-lactamase-producing organisms 4.
Clinical Use and Efficacy of Augmentin
- Augmentin has been shown to be effective in treating various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and skin infections 7, 8.
- It is often used as an empiric therapy for infections, and its efficacy has been demonstrated in several clinical studies 4, 5.
- However, the use of Augmentin should be guided by local resistance patterns and susceptibility testing to ensure optimal treatment outcomes 5.