Description
Clavamox (amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium) is a prescription antibiotic for dogs and cats. In dogs, it treats skin and soft tissue infections like wounds, abscesses, cellulitis, and pyoderma, as well as gum infections. In cats, it treats skin and soft tissue infections and urinary tract infections. It contains amoxicillin, which helps kill bacteria, and clavulanate potassium, which helps amoxicillin work against more types of bacteria. Clavamox comes as chewable tablets or a liquid called Clavamox Drops.
| Fact Table |
| Formula |
C24H27KN4O10S (anhydrous combination) |
| License |
US FDA veterinary: NADA 055-099 (chewable tablets); NADA 055-101 (oral suspension) |
| Bioavailability |
Cats, oral: amoxicillin 75.57%; clavulanic acid 98.15% |
| Legal status |
Prescription-only veterinary medicine; use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian |
| Chemical Name |
Amoxicillin trihydrate and clavulanate potassium |
| Elimination half-life |
Cats, oral: amoxicillin 1.24 ± 0.28 hours; clavulanic acid 0.63 ± 0.16 hours |
| Dosage (Strength) |
Chewable tablets: 62.5 mg (50/12.5 mg), 125 mg (100/25 mg), 250 mg (200/50 mg), 375 mg (300/75 mg); drops: 62.5 mg/mL (50/12.5 mg/mL) |
| Pregnancy |
Safety in pregnant or breeding animals has not been determined; consult a veterinarian |
| Brands |
Clavamox Chewable, Clavamox Drops |
| Protein binding |
Amoxicillin approximately 18%; clavulanic acid approximately 25% (human serum reference) |
| PubChem CID |
23665637 |
| MedlinePlus |
a685024 |
| ChEBI |
51254 (amoxicillin trihydrate); 48947 (clavulanic acid) |
| ATC code |
QJ01CR02 (ATCvet); J01CR02 (human ATC) |
| DrugBank |
DB01060 (amoxicillin); DB00766 (clavulanic acid) |
| KEGG |
D06485 |
| Routes of administration |
Oral (chewable tablet or oral suspension) |
Directions
Give Clavamox exactly as prescribed by a veterinarian. The usual dose for dogs is
6.25 mg per pound of body weight twice daily, or about
1 mL per 10 pounds twice daily when giving the drops. For cats, the usual dose is
62.5 mg twice daily, equal to one 62.5 mg tablet or 1 mL of the drops twice daily.
Most skin infections are treated for 5 to 7 days, or for 48 hours after symptoms are gone.
Some deeper skin infections in dogs may need up to 21 days, and cat urinary tract infections
may need 10 to 14 days or longer. However, treatment should not last more than 30 days.
If your dog does not improve after 5 days, or your cat does not improve after 3 days,
contact your veterinarian.
Keep chewable tablets in the foil until use, and make sure your pet eats the full tablet.
After mixing the drops, refrigerate them, shake well before each dose, and throw away any
unused medicine after 10 days.
Ingredients
The active ingredients in Clavamox are amoxicillin (as amoxicillin trihydrate) and clavulanic acid (as clavulanate potassium).
Cautions
Before giving this medication, you may want to consult a veterinarian about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications currently being taken
Clavamox is for use in dogs and cats only, and its safety in pregnant or breeding animals
has not been determined.
Not for human use. Keep this medication out of reach of children, and store
the tablets in a secure location out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose.
People who are sensitive to penicillins or cephalosporins should avoid direct skin contact
with this product, as it may cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals.
Contraindications
Avoid giving this medication if the animal has a history of an allergic reaction to any
penicillins or cephalosporins.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Clavamox may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness or low energy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Because Clavamox contains a penicillin (amoxicillin), it may cause allergic reactions in
some animals. Contact a veterinarian immediately if the pet shows signs of an allergic
reaction, such as swelling of the face, hives, or trouble breathing, as emergency treatment
may be needed.
References
Frequently Asked Questions about Clavamox
What is Clavamox?
Clavamox is a prescription veterinary antibiotic containing amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. Amoxicillin kills susceptible bacteria, while clavulanate helps prevent certain bacteria from breaking down the antibiotic.
What is Clavamox used for?
Clavamox is used in dogs and cats to treat susceptible bacterial infections. Common uses include infected wounds, abscesses, cellulitis, skin infections, and other soft-tissue infections. It may also treat periodontal infections in dogs and certain urinary tract infections in cats.
Does Clavamox treat viruses or fungal infections?
No. Clavamox treats specific bacterial infections and does not work against viruses, fungi, or parasites. Using antibiotics when they are not needed may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
How is Clavamox given?
Clavamox is given by mouth as a chewable tablet or liquid suspension. The correct dose and treatment duration depend on the animal’s species, weight, infection, formulation, and response, so the veterinarian’s directions should be followed exactly.
Should Clavamox be given with food?
Clavamox may generally be given with a small amount of food, which can help reduce stomach upset. Make sure the animal consumes the entire prescribed dose.
What are the common side effects of Clavamox?
The most commonly reported effects include reduced appetite, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact the veterinarian if these effects are severe, persistent, or accompanied by dehydration, weakness, or blood in the stool.
Can Clavamox cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Animals allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins should not receive Clavamox. Facial swelling, hives, breathing difficulty, collapse, or sudden severe vomiting may indicate a serious allergic reaction requiring immediate veterinary attention.
What should I do if a dose is missed?
Give the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not give two doses together unless specifically directed by the veterinarian.
How should Clavamox be stored?
Chewable tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place at or below 25°C or 77°F and kept in their packaging until use. Reconstituted Clavamox liquid must be refrigerated, shaken before dosing, and discarded after 10 days.
Can treatment be stopped when the pet feels better?
Clavamox should be given for the full period prescribed unless the veterinarian changes the treatment. Stopping early may allow the infection to return and may encourage antibiotic resistance.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13665