DRUG NAME Generic name: Co-Amoxiclav Dosage: 1MG Route & Frequency: PO q 8

MECHANISM OF ACTION An antibiotic that combines amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. It destroys bacteria by disrupting their ability to form cell walls. Clavulanic acid blocks the chemical defense, known as beta-lactamase that some bacteria have against penicillins. Co-amoxiclav is active against bacterial infections that have become resistant to amoxicillin.

INDICATION Known or suspected amoxicillin-resistant infections including respiratory tract, skin and soft tissue, genitourinary, and ear, nose and throat infections. Effective against strains of Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Haemophilus influenza, Streptococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pneumoniae and some betalactamase-producing organisms.

ADVERSE REACTION Lethargy, hallucinations, seizures, glossitis, sore mouth, furry tongue, black hairy tongue, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, enterocolitis

CONTRAINDICATION Penicillin hypersensitivity. History of co-amoxiclavassociated or penicillinassociated jaundice or hepatic dysfunction.

NURSING CONSIDERATION >Assess bowel pattern before and during treatment as pseudo membranous colitis may occur. >Report hematuria or oliguria as high doses can be nephrotoxic. >Assess respiratory status. >Observe for anaphylaxis. >Ensure that the patient has adequate fluid intake during any diarrhea attack.