Generic Name: amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium (am OX ih sil in KLAV yoo la nayt po TASS ee um) Brand Names: Augmentin, Augmentin ES-600, Augmentin XR What is the most important information I should know about amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium? • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin or to a cephalosporin, you may also be allergic to amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. Tell your doctor about any past drug allergies. • If you switch from one tablet form to another (regular, chewable, or extended-release tablet), take only the new tablet form and strength prescribed for you. The strength of clavulanate potassium is not the same among the different tablet forms, even though the amount of amoxicillin may be the same as in the tablet you were using before. This medicine may not be as effective or could be harmful if you do not use the exact tablet form your doctor has prescribed. • Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. • Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium can pass into breast milk and may cause a yeast infection, diarrhea, or allergic reaction in a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. • Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium can make birth control pills less effective. Use a second non-hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) while taking amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium to prevent pregnancy. What is amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium? • Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium is an antibiotic in a group of drugs called penicillins. Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium fights bacteria in the body. • Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium is used to treat many different infections caused by bacteria, such as sinusitis, pneumonia, ear infections, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, and infections of the skin. • Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.