What is the effective duration of Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) pills?

Augmentin Shelf Life and Storage Duration

Augmentin pills remain effective until the expiration date printed on the manufacturer's packaging when stored properly at room temperature (below 25°C/77°F), typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. 1

Critical Storage and Stability Information

Tablet Formulations

• Augmentin tablets (500mg/125mg and 875mg/125mg) are stable at room temperature and should be stored below 25°C (77°F) in their original packaging to protect from moisture 1
• The expiration date on the bottle or blister pack indicates the last day the medication maintains full potency when stored correctly 1
• Never use Augmentin tablets past the printed expiration date, as the clavulanate component degrades over time and loses its beta-lactamase inhibitory activity, potentially leading to treatment failure 1

Reconstituted Oral Suspension (Critical Difference)

• Oral suspension formulations have dramatically shorter stability once reconstituted with water 1
• After mixing with water, Augmentin suspension must be refrigerated and discarded after 10 days, as the clavulanate component rapidly degrades at room temperature 1
• This shortened stability does NOT apply to unopened powder or intact tablets 1

Treatment Duration vs. Medication Expiration (Common Confusion)

Standard Treatment Courses

• For respiratory tract infections: 5-7 days for mild-moderate infections, 7-10 days for severe infections 2
• For streptococcal pharyngitis: Always complete full 10 days regardless of symptom improvement to prevent acute rheumatic fever 2, 3
• For skin/soft tissue infections: 7-10 days 2
• For uncomplicated urinary tract infections: 3-7 days 2

Key Distinction

• The question "how long is Augmentin good for" typically refers to shelf life (2-3 years for tablets until expiration date) rather than treatment duration (typically 5-10 days depending on infection type) 2, 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Never confuse shelf life with treatment duration - completing a 7-10 day course does not mean leftover pills expire immediately 2, 1
• Do not use expired Augmentin even if it "looks fine" - clavulanate degradation is not visible but renders the medication less effective against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria 1
• Store tablets in original packaging with desiccant to prevent moisture exposure, which accelerates degradation 1
• Discard any reconstituted suspension after 10 days even if refrigerated, but this does not apply to unopened powder or tablets 1

Clinical Decision Algorithm

If you have Augmentin tablets:

1. Check the expiration date printed on the packaging 1
2. If before expiration date AND stored properly at room temperature: Safe to use 1
3. If past expiration date: Discard and obtain new prescription 1
4. If appearance has changed (discoloration, crumbling): Discard regardless of date 1

If you have reconstituted suspension:

1. Check date of reconstitution (when water was added) 1
2. If less than 10 days AND refrigerated: Safe to use 1
3. If more than 10 days OR not refrigerated: Discard 1