Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are very common and mainly caused by the bacteria E.Coli. So, antibiotics are the best choice to get rid of them. One of these trusted medications is Augmentin. It is a combination of drugs, Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid, used to treat many bacterial infections. 

If you wish to learn about the effectiveness of Augmentin for UTIs, its dosage, and duration of treatment, make your way to the end of the article. 

Does Augmentin work for UTI

Antibiotics are considered the primary treatment for UTIs, and one of these is Augmentin. It is FDA-approved for treating Urinary Tract Infections. It works effectively due to the combination of dual ingredients: Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid.

Amoxicillin attaches to the cell walls of the bacteria to kill it, while Clavulanic Acid improves the antimicrobial effects of Amoxicillin. Moreover, it helps overcome the resistance a bacteria has built towards Amoxicillin. 

Augmentin is not the first choice when it comes to choosing antibiotics for UTI treatment. It is used when other, more effective medications like Co-trimoxazole cannot be used due to allergy or pregnancy. 

Augmentin for E.Coli UTI

Augmentin is used to treat Urinary Tract Infections caused by E.Coli. This medicine is also a substitute for other effective medicines used for treating E.Coli UTI, such as Fluoroquinolones. Sometimes, it is used for other bacterial infections like Bacterial Peritonitisin combination with other drugs like Gentamicin (present regimen). 

Fact:
E.Coli is responsible for 80 percent of the community-acquired uncomplicated UTIs. It can affect the kidneys, urethra, bladder and vagina. 

Augmentin for UTI in pregnancy

Augmentin is considered safe to treat UTI in pregnancy with a recommended dosage of 250 mg four times a day. It is suitable for pregnancy and even breastfeeding. No congenital abnormalities have been reported so far in infants after the administration of Augmentin by mothers. However, it is still best to inform your doctor about your pregnancy before starting any treatment. 

To learn more in detail, read Augmentin in Pregnancy. 

Augmentin dosage for UTI

According to drugs.com, the recommended dosage for UTI is 250 mg orally every eight hours or 500 mg every twelve hours for three to seven days. For severe infections, the dosage goes higher to 500 mg orally every eight hours or 875 mg orally every twelve hours. 

One of the studies by NCBI also suggests that Augmentin 375 administration thrice a day is also effective for treating UTIs. It is well tolerated and also has minimal gastrointestinal side effects. 

So, Augmentin dosage can vary according to the person and severity of infection. It is best to stick to the dosage prescribed by your doctor. 

Warning:
Augmentin can induce jaundice. If you feel any uneasiness, itching, or changes in skin and urine color, stop the treatment and immediately seek help from a doctor. 

How quickly does Augmentin work for UTI

Augmentin starts working immediately and reaches highest level in the body in 1.5 hours. However, the symptoms take about 48 hours to improve. For UTIs, 96.9 percent of people are cured after one week of Augmentin treatment. 

You can easily buy Augmentin 375 from WowRxPharmacy at affordable prices. 

Side effects of Augmentin

Woman suffering from rashes due to augmentin side effect
Woman suffering from rashes

Some common side effects of Augmentin are:

  • Hives (red raised bumps/welts) 
  • Itching 
  • Painful intercourse
  • Redness or rash
  • Thick, white vaginal discharge with mild odor or no odor

Some of them are rare but possible:

  • Bloody or cloudy urine
  • Fever
  • Decreased urination
  • Seizure
  • Swollen legs and feet

If you observe any such side effects, stop taking the medicine to prevent the worsening of symptoms and immediately consult a doctor.  

Who should avoid Augmentin

You should avoid Augmentin if you:

  • Are allergic to Amoxicillin, Clavulanate, Penicillin, or other such medications
  • Have kidney or liver problems
  • Have Phenylketonuria (a disorder of musty odor in urine, breath, or skin) 
  • Do not have a prescription

Conclusion

Augmentin is FDA-approved for treating UTIs. However, it may not be the first choice antibiotic for this purpose. It can cure E.Coli. UTI and is even safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

The recommended dosage is 250 mg orally (thrice daily) or 500 mg (twice daily). Your doctor may prescribe 500 mg thrice a day or 875 mg twice a day for severe infection. 

Despite its fast action, it may take a few days for you to notice improvement. After one week of Augmentin treatment, most people are cured. It is important to complete the entire course, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection clears and you recover well. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take Augmentin for a UTI?

Yes, Augmentin is FDA-approved for treating UTIs. It can also be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, you should not use the medicine without a prescription and adhere to the dosage your doctor recommends. 

Is Augmentin good for urinary tract infection? 

Augmentin is a trusted treatment for UTIs. It can be used for E.Coli UTI, which is resistant to numerous drugs. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers may be prescribed Augmentin as it is generally safe. Do not use this medicine without a prescription. You can buy Augmentin 375 from WowRxPharmacy. 

How long do you have to take Augmentin for UTI?  

Augmentin is prescribed as 250 mg orally thrice a day Or 500 mg twice a day for 3 to 7 days for UTI. In about one week, 96.9 percent of the people who complete the treatment are cured. For best results, do not stop taking Augmentin even if you feel better, and complete the prescribed course. 

Is 3 days Augmentin enough for UTIs? 

You may be prescribed a short course of three days for an uncomplicated infection. However, it can also go up to seven days. So, the dosage and time depend upon the severity of the infection. A doctor can help you figure out the course of treatment. 

Citations:
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