Clavamox
Generic Name
Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium
Indications/Uses
Clavamox tablets are normally used in dogs and cats for the treatment of persistent pyodermas, bone infections, infections in the mouth, pneumonia, bladder infections apart from skin and soft tissue infections like wounds, abscesses, and cellulitis/dermatitis caused by both gram positive and gram-negative aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms. Clavamox is stable in the presence of gastric acid. It is bactericidal in action and possesses both the antibiotic properties of amoxicillin and the unique ?-lactamase inhibiting effect of clavulanic acid, which makes it highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., E. coli, Pasteurella multocida and Pasteurella spp among others. However, it cannot be used for viral parasitic infections.
Precautions
Clavamox is not recommended in animals with known hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporins as this medication contains semi-synthetic penicillin. Drug administration is best done after food to avoid chances of stomach irritation and vomiting in dogs. In case vomiting persists, the veterinarian should be consulted. It is not advisable to use Clovamox in pregnant or breeding animals as its safety has not been ascertained.
Side Effects
Clovamox should be used only as per the directions of a licensed veterinarian. Though it is a safe and effective medication, it can cause side effects at least in some animals. Clavamox could interact with other medications such as chloramphenicol and tetracycline. In some cases, animals might develop resistance and might not respond to treatment. Usage of Clavamox might also result in diarrhea, which is caused by a change in the bacterial population in the animal’s intestine.
Dosage Information
Clovamox is presented in tablet forms of various strengths of 62.5 to 400 mg, and a 50 mg/ml liquid oral suspension. The ideal dosage is 6.25 mg/lb (1 mL/10 lb) of body weight twice a day. Skin and soft-tissue infections should be treated for 5 to 7 day; if animals fail to respond to the treatment even after 3 days of treatment, stop the therapy and consult a veterinarian. Though some conditions like urinary infections may require longer treatment schedules, make sure that the treatment does not exceed 30 days.
Brand Names
Clavamox, Synulox, Clavaseptin.