Clavam 1.0 Gm Tab

CLAVAM 1.0 GM Tablet

Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet, manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd., is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.

• Composition: Each Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet contains Amoxicillin (875 mg) and Clavulanic Acid (125 mg).

  • Amoxicillin is a penicillin-class antibiotic that works by preventing the formation of bacterial cell walls, which is essential for bacterial survival.
  • Clavulanic Acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that protects amoxicillin from being broken down by bacterial enzymes, thereby enhancing its effectiveness against resistant bacteria. This combination helps overcome antibiotic resistance.

• Uses: Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet is prescribed for various bacterial infections, but it is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu. It is commonly used to treat:

  • Respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis)
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Skin and soft tissue infections (e.g., cellulitis, impetigo, bite wounds)
  • Ear infections (acute otitis media)
  • Dental infections (e.g., periodontitis, dental abscesses)
  • Bone and joint infections (e.g., osteomyelitis, septic arthritis)

• Dosage and Administration: The typical dosage guidance for adults and children ≥ 40 kg is one tablet (Amoxicillin 875mg + clavulanic acid 125mg) two times daily, depending on the severity of the disease. It should be taken as prescribed by a physician, preferably with food to minimize stomach upset. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed, chewed, or broken. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the resurgence of infection and antibiotic resistance.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, and headaches.
  • Serious Side Effects (Rare): Severe allergic reactions (including hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/lips/throat), liver problems (jaundice, yellowing of skin/eyes), and severe diarrhea (indicating colitis). Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

• Precautions:

  • Allergies: Do not take if allergic to penicillin, cephalosporin antibiotics, or any components of Clavam.
  • Liver and Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver disease or kidney disease; dosage adjustments may be necessary. It is not recommended for those with a history of liver problems or jaundice after taking antibiotics.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as active ingredients can pass into breast milk.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment as it may worsen side effects like nausea and vomiting and can affect the liver.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, especially warfarin, methotrexate, allopurinol, probenecid, mycophenolate mofetil, and oral contraceptives.
  • Driving: Clavam may cause dizziness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.

• Storage: Store Clavam tablets in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat, ideally between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet by Alkem Laboratories Ltd. is a combination antibiotic containing Amoxicillin (875 mg) and Clavulanic Acid (125 mg). It is prescribed for the treatment of various bacterial infections.

What is Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet used for?

Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet is used to manage a wide range of bacterial infections. These include infections of the middle ear, sinuses, respiratory tract (like bronchitis and pneumonia), genital tract, urinary tract, skin and soft tissues (such as dental infections, boils, abscesses, cellulitis), and bone and joint infections. It also treats conditions like septic abortion and abdominal infections. It is important to note that this medicine is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu.

How does Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet work?

Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet works through the combined action of its two active ingredients: Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid. Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic that kills bacteria by inhibiting the formation of their protective cell walls, which are essential for their survival. Some bacteria produce enzymes called beta-lactamases that can break down amoxicillin, making it ineffective. Clavulanic acid, a beta-lactamase inhibitor, inactivates these enzymes, thereby protecting amoxicillin and allowing it to work more effectively against a broader spectrum of bacteria, including those that might otherwise be resistant.

What is the usual dosage for Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet?

The typical dosage of Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet (875 mg amoxicillin and 125 mg clavulanic acid) for adults and children weighing 40 kilograms (kg) or more is usually one tablet every 8 hours or every 12 hours, depending on the severity and type of infection. It should be taken orally with a meal or snack to minimize stomach upset. It is crucial to follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is completely cleared and to prevent antibiotic resistance.

What are the possible side effects of Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet?

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and thrush (a fungal infection in the vagina, skin folds, or mouth). More serious side effects, though less common, can include severe allergic reactions (characterized by rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing), liver problems (such as jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, or severe stomach pain), and severe watery or bloody diarrhea, which could be a sign of Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD). If any severe symptoms occur, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

• Pregnancy: Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet should be used during pregnancy only if clearly necessary and advised by a doctor. While most studies have not found an increased risk of birth defects, some research suggests a potential increased chance of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in newborns when this combination is used after preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).
• Breastfeeding: The active ingredients of Clavam pass into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered acceptable for nursing mothers, but infants should be monitored for potential side effects such as rash, diarrhea, or irritability. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

Can Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet be taken with other medications?

Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet can interact with several medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines you are currently taking.

• Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin): Taking Clavam with warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Methotrexate: Clavam can increase the concentration of methotrexate in the body, potentially leading to increased toxicity.
• Oral Contraceptives: Clavam may reduce the effectiveness of combined oral birth control pills, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy. Additional birth control methods (e.g., condoms) should be considered.
• Allopurinol: Concomitant use with allopurinol (for gout) may increase the likelihood of developing a skin rash.
• Probenecid: Probenecid can prevent the normal elimination of amoxicillin by the kidneys, potentially leading to higher drug levels.

What precautions should be taken while using Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet?

• Do not take this medicine if you have a known allergy to penicillin, cephalosporin antibiotics, amoxicillin, or clavulanic acid. Also, avoid if you have a history of liver problems or jaundice related to previous amoxicillin-clavulanate use.
• Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or glandular fever before starting treatment.
• Take Clavam with food at the start of a meal or snack to help reduce stomach upset.
• It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better, to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent antibiotic resistance.
• Avoid consuming alcohol during treatment as it may worsen side effects like dizziness.
• Clavam may cause dizziness, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

What happens if a dose of Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (e.g., within 4 hours for a twice-daily medication), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should Clavam 1.0 GM Tablet be stored?

Tablets should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), away from heat, moisture, and direct light. It's important to keep them protected from humidity. If you have an oral suspension form, once reconstituted, it must be stored in a refrigerator and should be discarded after 10 days. Always keep all medicines out of the reach of children.