Clavulanic Acid
Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that is almost exclusively used in combination with amoxicillin (as co-amoxiclav/Augmentin) to overcome antibiotic resistance. It is prescribed for various bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and dental infections. By protecting amoxicillin from degradation, it allows the antibiotic to effectively eliminate susceptible bacteria.
Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor used with amoxicillin to treat bacterial infections by overcoming antibiotic resistance.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 21216
- Generic
- Clavulanic Acid
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats respiratory infections (pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis), urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, dental infections, otitis media, and bone/joint infections when combined with amoxicillin.
Clavulanic acid inhibits beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria that would otherwise break down amoxicillin's beta-lactam ring, restoring the antibiotic's effectiveness against resistant organisms.
Always used in combination with amoxicillin, not as a standalone medication. May cause GI side effects including diarrhea and nausea. Patients with penicillin allergy should avoid. Can interact with blood thinners and methotrexate. Resistance can develop with prolonged use.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy