Can Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanic acid) 625mg tablets be crushed?

Crushing Augmentin 625mg Tablets

Yes, Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) 625mg tablets can be safely crushed for patients with swallowing difficulties, as this does not affect the medication's efficacy or safety. 1

Proper Administration Technique

When crushing Augmentin tablets for patients with swallowing difficulties:

1. Crush the tablet thoroughly using a pill crusher or mortar and pestle
2. Mix with a small amount of cold water or soft food (avoid hot foods/liquids)
3. Administer immediately after crushing
4. Ensure complete ingestion of the entire dose
5. Follow with adequate fluid to ensure complete swallowing 1

Important Considerations

• Do not pre-crush tablets for later use as this may affect stability
• Avoid mixing with acidic foods or beverages that might affect drug stability
• For enteral tubes, flush before and after administration to prevent clogging 1

Alternative Formulations

For patients with severe swallowing difficulties, consider:

• Powder for oral suspension - provides consistent dosing without the need for crushing 1
• This may be particularly useful for patients who cannot reliably swallow crushed tablets mixed with food

Clinical Context

Augmentin is commonly used in respiratory tract infections and other bacterial infections:

• Effective against beta-lactamase-producing pathogens including resistant strains of Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Staphylococcus aureus 2
• Standard dosing for non-severe infections is typically 625mg three times daily 2

Cautions

While Augmentin immediate-release tablets can be crushed, this practice should be approached with care:

• Ensure the medication is an immediate-release formulation, not extended-release 1
• Be aware that crushing tablets may expose healthcare workers to drug particles 3
• Always verify that a specific medication can be crushed before proceeding, as some medications should never be crushed 3, 4

Patient Education

Instruct patients or caregivers on proper technique:

• Crush immediately before administration
• Mix with a small amount of room temperature water or soft food
• Take the entire dose at once
• Follow with water to ensure complete swallowing

By following these guidelines, patients with swallowing difficulties can safely receive their prescribed Augmentin therapy without compromising the medication's effectiveness.