Augmentin Shelf Life After Opening
Augmentin oral suspension should be discarded after 7 days when stored in the refrigerator at 8°C, or after just 2 days when stored at room temperature. 1
Storage and Stability Guidelines
Reconstituted Oral Suspension
- Refrigerated storage (8°C): The suspension maintains stability for 7 days, with both amoxicillin and clavulanate retaining at least 90% of their original concentration 1
- Room temperature storage (20°C): The clavulanate component degrades rapidly, losing more than 40% potency within 7 days, with a shelf-life (t90) of only 2 days 1
- Critical consideration: Clavulanate is significantly less stable than amoxicillin, making it the limiting factor for shelf life 1
Unopened Dehydrated Powder
- Before reconstitution: Dehydrated culture media and pharmaceutical powders typically have shelf lives of several years when stored properly 2
- Storage requirements: Keep in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture 2
- After opening the container: Use within 6 months maximum, as dehydrated products are hygroscopic and deteriorate rapidly when exposed to moisture 2
Clinical Implications
Proper Storage Protocol
- Always refrigerate reconstituted suspension to maximize the 7-day shelf life rather than the 2-day room temperature limit 1
- Label the bottle with the date of reconstitution to track expiration 2
- Discard if: The product shows clumping, discoloration, or is not free-flowing 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Do not assume room temperature storage is acceptable for the full 7-day course—this leads to significant clavulanate degradation and potential treatment failure 1
- Do not use suspension beyond 7 days even if refrigerated, as the clavulanate component becomes subtherapeutic 1
- Do not rely on visual inspection alone—chemical degradation occurs before visible changes 1