Augmentin is an antibiotic used to treat sinus infections. It is also used to treat ear infections, lower respiratory infections, and skin infections that are caused by a specific strain of bacteria.
What Is Augmentin?
Augmentin is a penicillin-based antibiotic that is generally safe to treat routine sinus infections. It can be prescribed for adults and children alike.
How Is It Taken?
Augmentin is usually taken in oral form, either pill or liquid, several times a day for a period of 7-10 days when treating a sinus infection. Because the bacteria that Augmentin is used against are somewhat difficult to eradicate, the treatment period may be longer. It can be taken with or without food.
Side Effects
Known side effects are diarrhea, nausea, skin rashes, and hives.
Warnings
The full prescription of Augmentin should be taken, regardless of whether or not the patient feels better This prevents a rebound of the sinus infection and bacterial resistance.
People who have sensitivities to penicillin should not take Augmentin.
Considerations
Augmentin can only be used to treat a sinus infection if there is a bacterial infection present. It will not treat other sinus conditions caused by viruses. It will not shorten the duration of a cold or treat allergies.