From the Research
Patients with fatty liver should exercise caution when taking Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) and fluconazole together, as both medications can potentially cause liver stress, and monitoring liver function before and during treatment is recommended 1. When considering the use of Augmentin and fluconazole in patients with fatty liver, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks of liver injury.
- Augmentin has been associated with cholestatic liver injury in some patients, as seen in a study published in 2024, which found that idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury (iDILI) caused by amoxicillin-clavulanate was associated with specific gut microbiota profiles and metabolic changes 1.
- Fluconazole can cause transient liver enzyme elevations, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood.
- A study from 2016 found that amoxicillin-clavulanate-induced liver injury was more common in older men and was characterized by a mixed hepatocellular-cholestatic pattern 2. To minimize the risk of liver injury, patients should:
- Report any symptoms of liver problems immediately, including yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, unusual fatigue, or abdominal pain.
- Maintain good hydration and avoid alcohol completely during treatment to reduce additional liver stress.
- Take these medications exactly as prescribed and complete the full course unless directed otherwise by their healthcare provider. Alternative antibiotics or antifungals with less liver impact might be considered if appropriate for the infection being treated, and liver function should be monitored regularly to quickly identify any potential issues 3.