Should I continue taking Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) despite gastrointestinal side effects?

Management of Augmentin Treatment for Sinus Infection with GI Side Effects

You should complete the full course of Augmentin as prescribed since your culture shows Klebsiella oxytoca that is susceptible to this antibiotic, despite the gastrointestinal side effects you're experiencing. 1

Understanding Your Situation

Your situation involves:

• Day 9 of a sinus infection with culture-confirmed Klebsiella oxytoca
• Incomplete course of Augmentin 875mg (only 3 doses taken)
• Discontinuation due to GI side effects
• Current symptoms of sticky clear mucus and productive cough with yellow/green phlegm
• New symptoms of cramping, sharp arm pains, and tingling fingers

Treatment Recommendation Algorithm

Step 1: Complete the Antibiotic Course

• The culture shows Klebsiella oxytoca susceptible to Augmentin, making it the appropriate targeted therapy 1
• Skipping doses or not completing the full course may decrease treatment effectiveness and increase the likelihood of bacterial resistance 2

Step 2: Manage GI Side Effects

• Take each dose with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset 2
• Consider splitting the dose and taking with separate meals 3
• Some patients prefer taking the medication at bedtime to avoid nausea during waking hours 3

Step 3: Monitor for Complications

• Watch for signs of severe adverse reactions:
  • Severe diarrhea lasting more than 2-3 days
  • Bloody stools
  • Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
  • Worsening of neurological symptoms (tingling, arm pain) 2

Managing Specific Side Effects

Gastrointestinal Effects

Gastrointestinal side effects are among the most common with Augmentin:

• Diarrhea/loose stools (9%)
• Nausea (3%)
• Vomiting (1%) 2

For mild to moderate diarrhea:

• Make dietary modifications (eliminate lactose-containing products)
• Consider over-the-counter antidiarrheals like loperamide if diarrhea is troublesome 3
• If diarrhea is severe or lasts more than 2-3 days, contact your physician 2

Neurological Symptoms

The tingling in fingers and arm pain you're experiencing could be concerning:

• These are not typical side effects of Augmentin
• These symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation as they may represent:
  1. An allergic reaction
  2. An unrelated neurological issue
  3. A rare adverse effect 2

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if:

• You develop severe diarrhea
• You notice signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
• Your neurological symptoms (arm pain, tingling) worsen
• You develop fever, severe headache, or visual changes 1

Conclusion

The benefits of completing your antibiotic course outweigh the risks of untreated infection, especially with a confirmed bacterial pathogen. However, your neurological symptoms (arm pain, tingling) are concerning and warrant prompt medical evaluation. Continue taking Augmentin with food, implement the strategies to reduce GI side effects, and seek medical attention for your neurological symptoms.