Clavulanic Acid

Clavulanic acid, also known by its potassium salt form clavulanate, is FDA approved for clinical use in conjunction with amoxicillin to treat certain bacterial infections. The antibacterial activity of amoxicillin is not improved by clavulanic acid when used against bacteria that do not produce beta-lactamase. Therefore, indications for this drug combination only include patients suspected of infection with beta-lactamase-producing bacteria.[1] This combination has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of infections such as complicated and uncomplicated urinary tract infections, lower respiratory infections, sinusitis, otitis media, and some skin and soft tissue infections caused by organisms such as H. influenzae, M. catarrhalis, and S. aureus. The amoxicillin/clavulanate combination should be considered before ceftriaxone for urinary tract infections to decrease the risk of re-infection and complications.[2] Some off-label uses for amoxicillin/clavulanate include animal bites, impetigo, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations, bronchiectasis, and odontogenic infections.