Clavulanate
Clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor supplied in fixed combinations with a penicillin antibiotic. It does not provide useful antibacterial treatment on its own.
Key takeaways
- Clavulanate protects the companion penicillin from selected bacterial resistance enzymes.
- Combination products with different ingredient ratios or formulations are not automatically interchangeable.
- Previous liver injury from a clavulanate-containing product is a major safety concern.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on the complete combination product, infection, prescription and pharmacy checks.
What clavulanate is used for
Clavulanate is used with a penicillin for selected bacterial infections when beta-lactamase-producing bacteria are suspected or confirmed.
How it works
Clavulanate irreversibly inhibits selected beta-lactamase enzymes, allowing the companion antibiotic to act. It does not overcome every resistance mechanism.
Important safety checks
Review severe penicillin or cephalosporin allergy, previous jaundice or liver injury with the combination, liver or kidney disease, pregnancy, anticoagulants and prior antibiotic-associated colitis.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, blistering skin, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or severe or bloody diarrhoea.