Description:

Amoksiklav 457mg/5ml Oral Suspension (70ml bottle by Sandoz) is a combination antibiotic containing amoxicillin (a broad-spectrum penicillin) and clavulanic acid (a beta-lactamase inhibitor). It treats bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms, particularly those resistant to amoxicillin alone due to beta-lactamase production. Common indications include upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., sinusitis, otitis media, tonsillitis), lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis exacerbations), urinary tract infections, skin/soft tissue infections, and dental infections. The 457mg/5ml strength (400mg amoxicillin + 57mg clavulanic acid per 5ml) is a pediatric/high-dose formulation (often called 457/5ml or 400/57mg/5ml), suitable for children and adults requiring twice-daily dosing. It is widely available in Ghanaian pharmacies (e.g., in Accra at Vafy Pharmacy, Scab Pharmacy, Meldinpharma, Caplet Cares).

Prescription:

Prescription-only (requires a doctor’s prescription in Ghana; a broad-spectrum antibiotic, dispensed by pharmacies with Rx to ensure appropriate use and avoid resistance).

Therapeutic Category:

Penicillin Antibiotic + Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor Combination (Broad-spectrum antibacterial for beta-lactamase producing organisms.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredients (per 5ml reconstituted suspension):
  • Amoxicillin (as amoxicillin trihydrate) – 400 mg
  • Clavulanic acid (as potassium clavulanate) – 57 mg (Total 457 mg/5ml; ratio approximately 7:1 amoxicillin:clavulanic acid). Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Sucrose/sweeteners, flavoring (e.g., raspberry or fruit), preservatives, suspending agents, sodium citrate, microcrystalline cellulose, and water (powder for reconstitution).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None (trace potassium from potassium clavulanate, but not therapeutic).

Variant:

• Amoksiklav 457mg/5ml Oral Suspension (70ml after reconstitution; pediatric/high-dose twice-daily formulation). Related variants: Lower strengths (e.g., 228mg/5ml or 156mg/5ml for milder cases), adult tablets (e.g., 625mg or 1g), or other Sandoz co-amoxiclav generics. The 457/5ml is specifically for higher amoxicillin dosing with reduced clavulanate to minimize GI side effects.

Consume Type:

Oral – Powder for oral suspension (reconstitute with water to make liquid; shake well before each dose; measured with provided syringe/spoon).

Directions/Usage:

Reconstitute powder with specified water volume (usually ~63-68ml for 70ml final volume; follow bottle instructions). Shake vigorously before each use.

• Children (common use for this strength): Dose based on body weight (typically 45 mg/kg/day amoxicillin equivalent, divided twice daily). Example: 5-10ml twice daily depending on weight/severity (e.g., ~5ml BID for ~20-30kg child; doctor determines exact).
• Adults (if prescribed): Often 10-11ml twice daily (equivalent to ~875mg/125mg BID). Take at start of meals to reduce GI upset. Complete full course (usually 5-14 days); do not stop early even if symptoms improve. Use measuring device (not household spoon).

Common Side Effects: Common:

• Diarrhea (most frequent, often mild; higher with clavulanate).
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort.
• Rash, itching, or candidiasis (thrush). Other: Headache, dizziness. Serious (rare/seek immediate help): Severe diarrhea (C. difficile), allergic reactions (rash, swelling, anaphylaxis), liver issues (jaundice), or skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson).

Package Type:

Amber glass or plastic bottle (powder for reconstitution to 70ml suspension) with child-resistant cap, measuring syringe/spoon, and patient information leaflet (often in carton).

Storage Advice:

• Before reconstitution: Store dry powder below 25-30°C in cool, dry place, away from light/moisture.
• After reconstitution: Refrigerate (2-8°C); do not freeze. Use within 7 days (or per label; discard if unused). Shake well before each dose. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Only use if bacterial infection confirmed/suspected (not for viral infections like colds/flu).
• Contraindicated if allergic to penicillins, cephalosporins, or clavulanic acid, or history of liver issues with this combo.
• Caution in liver/kidney impairment (dose adjustment needed), glandular fever (higher rash risk), or history of antibiotic-associated colitis.
• Inform doctor if pregnant/breastfeeding (generally safe but confirm), or on anticoagulants (may increase bleeding risk).
• Complete course to prevent resistance; probiotics may help prevent diarrhea.
• If severe rash, breathing difficulty, or persistent diarrhea occurs, stop and seek urgent care.

Product Substitutes:

Similar co-amoxiclav (amoxicillin/clavulanic acid) 457mg/5ml suspensions in Ghana include:

• Augmentin ES (GSK, original brand equivalent).
• Bioclavid or other generics (e.g., from Indian/Egyptian importers).
• Amokxinate 457mg/5ml or local brands like Moxipil CV 457. Lower strengths (e.g., 228mg/5ml) for milder cases. Consult pharmacist in Accra for availability (widely stocked at Scab, Vafy, Meldinpharma).

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Sandoz Limited (or Sandoz affiliates; part of Novartis/Sandoz group). Marketed/distributed in Ghana by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Vafy Pharmacy & Mart, Scab Pharmacy Limited, Meldinpharma, Caplet Cares).

Country of Origin:

Varies by batch (often Slovenia/India/Egypt for Sandoz generics; Lek Pharmaceuticals or similar sites; imported to Ghana as affordable option).