Treatment of Staphylococcus saprophyticus with Augmentin
Yes, Staphylococcus saprophyticus is effectively treated with Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate). The FDA drug label specifically lists S. saprophyticus among the organisms susceptible to amoxicillin-clavulanate, confirming its efficacy against this pathogen 1.
Mechanism of Action and Efficacy
- Augmentin combines amoxicillin (a semisynthetic antibiotic with bactericidal activity) with clavulanic acid (a beta-lactamase inhibitor) that protects amoxicillin from degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes, extending its spectrum to include many bacteria normally resistant to amoxicillin alone 1
- S. saprophyticus is specifically listed in the FDA drug label as one of the gram-positive bacteria against which amoxicillin/clavulanic acid demonstrates in vitro activity 1
- Clinical trials have shown Augmentin to be effective in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs), with success rates of approximately 70% even for amoxicillin-resistant organisms 2
Dosing Recommendations
- For uncomplicated UTIs caused by S. saprophyticus: Augmentin 875/125 mg orally twice daily for 7-10 days 3
- Dosing can be done without regard to meals, though absorption of clavulanate potassium is greater when taken with food 1
- For complicated infections or pyelonephritis caused by S. saprophyticus, consider initial parenteral therapy before transitioning to oral Augmentin 3
Clinical Considerations
- S. saprophyticus is a common cause of uncomplicated UTIs, particularly in young women 4
- In some studies, approximately 60% of S. saprophyticus cystitis cases received inappropriate initial antibiotic therapy, highlighting the importance of considering this pathogen when treating UTIs 4
- Augmentin is well-tolerated even at relatively high clavulanic acid doses, though gastrointestinal side effects (diarrhea, abdominal pain) may occur in some patients 5
Alternative Treatment Options
- If Augmentin cannot be used due to allergies or other contraindications, alternative options include:
Potential Pitfalls
- Some studies have shown varying success rates with Augmentin for UTIs, with one comparative study showing an 83% cure rate compared to 100% for co-trimoxazole 8
- Resistance patterns can vary by region, so local antibiograms should guide therapy when available 4
- Gastrointestinal side effects (diarrhea, abdominal pain) are the most common adverse reactions to Augmentin 5
Augmentin represents an effective treatment option for S. saprophyticus infections, with specific FDA-approved indication for this pathogen and demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating the urinary tract infections commonly caused by this organism.