Clavamox

Dosage

Clavamox may be prescribed in tablet or liquid form and should be given with food. The standard dosage is 6.25 mg per pound of body weight. However, the recommended dosage amount and frequency will vary depending on several factors, including the infection as well as your dog’s age, breed, and weight.

Administering Clavamox according to your veterinarian’s instructions is essential to treat the condition and prevent antibiotic resistance. Give your dog the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms clear up before it runs out. Never stop a course of antibiotics unless your vet explicitly instructs you to do so.

Efficacy

Often prescribed in cases where the bacterium is unknown or unidentified, Clavamox is one of the most effective antibiotics in veterinary medicine. Amoxicillin and clavulanate target a wider range of bacteria than amoxicillin alone. However, as is the case with any antibiotic, pet parents must administer the medication exactly as prescribed to ensure maximum efficacy.

Clavamox treats an array of bacterial infections, including:

• Pneumonia

• Skin conditions

• Infected wounds

• Bone infections

• Dental infections

• Gum disease

• Urinary tract infections

Clavamox is effective against a variety of bacterial strains, including:

• E. coli

• Streptococci

• Staphylococci

• Proteus mirabilis

Active ingredients in Clavamox

Clavamox contains amoxicillin trihydrate and clavulanate potassium. Amoxicillin works by infiltrating the bacterial cell wall, which causes the cell membrane to deteriorate. Some bacteria produce enzymes called beta-lactamases, which make them resistant to amoxicillin and other penicillins. Clavulanate potassium binds to those enzymes and breaks them down.

Side effects

Vomiting and diarrhea are the most common side effects of Clavamox. Administering Clavamox after a meal can prevent vomiting. Other potential side effects include:

• Diarrhea

• Weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Yeast or fungal infection

Considerations

Trace amounts of Clavamox will pass through the placenta or breast milk of pregnant or lactating dogs. While little information is available on potential adverse effects, use Clavamox with caution in pregnant or lactating dogs.

Drug interactions

Clavamox may interact with the following drugs: 

• Pentoxifylline

• Sulfinpyrazone

• Pain medications

• Blood thinners (dipyridamole)

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Gout medications (probenecid, sulfinpyrazone)

• Other antibiotics (tetracycline, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, aminoglycosides, cephalosporins)

Allergic reactions and sensitivity

Clavamox should not be given to dogs with a penicillin or cephalosporin allergy. Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• Rash

• Fever

• Vomiting

• Seizures

• Facial swelling

• Rapid heartbeat

• Difficulty breathing

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Give your dog the missed dose of Clavamox as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to time for the next dose. In that case, skip the dose and return to the normal dosing schedule. Never give your dog two doses at once. Giving your dog their medication on time is essential to ensure the best possible prognosis and prevent antibiotic resistance. Consider setting a reminder to help you remember.

Is it possible to overdose on Clavamox?

Yes. Signs of overdose include:

• Rash

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Lethargy

• Hyperactivity

• Kidney dysfunction

Always keep medications out of your dog’s reach, and contact your vet if you notice any of these symptoms.

My dog’s symptoms are starting to clear up. Can they stop taking Clavamox?

Even if your dog’s condition improves, you should always give the full course of antibiotics. Failure to do so increases the risk of the bacterial infection returning, stronger and more resistant to Clavamox and other antibiotics. Always give the full course according to your veterinarian’s instructions.

My vet prescribed the liquid form of Clavamox. Do I need to refrigerate it?

Yes, liquid Clavamox should be refrigerated.