Augmentin is a go-to choice antibiotic for healthcare professionals to treat various bacterial infections, such as Respiratory or Urinary Tract Infections.  

It is a combination medication containing Amoxicillin and Cavulanic acid. While Augmentin is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience common side effects such as dizziness and nausea, or less common ones like headaches. This headache is usually mild and can often be managed easily. 

This article will explore the causes of Augmentin headache, its frequency, severity, and management.

Can Augmentin cause headaches?

Headaches are listed as one of the possible side effects of Augmentin. Although not everyone who takes Augmentin will experience headaches, it is important to recognize that this symptom can occur in some individuals. 

Headache comes under the nervous system disorders, which include agitation, anxiety, confusion, seizures, dizziness, headache, and insomnia. While seizures are very rare, other nervous system disorders such as dizziness and headaches are listed as potential adverse reactions to Augmentin.

Fact:
According to the FDA, less than 1% of people taking Augmentin experience headaches.

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Causes of Augmentin side effects headache

A closeup of a woman holding head due to headache after taking augmentin pill
Woman suffering from headache after taking Augmentin pill.

The mechanism of this side effect is unclear, but several factors may contribute to its occurrence. 

  • Augmentin contains Amoxicillin and Clavulanic acid, which can affect the central nervous system. This disruption may manifest as headaches in some individuals
  • Another reason could be that Augmentin affects how blood flows in the brain. It might make blood vessels widen or narrow, which can lead to headaches
  • Amoxicillin and Warfarin, when used together, can potentially increase the risk of bleeding. The effect of Warfarin on the blood’s ability to clot, combined with the potential gastrointestinal irritation caused by Amoxicillin, could contribute to headaches

Also read: It’s crucial to monitor your dosage to prevent Augmentin side effects. For accurate dosing and effective use, check out this article: Know The Correct Augmentin Dosage For You.

Can Augmentin cause severe headaches?

Most headaches induced by Augmentin are mild to moderate in severity. There have not been any reports of severe headaches after taking Augmentin. Other side effects of Augmentin, like nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound, could accompany these headaches.  

If you are experiencing headaches while taking Augmentin, you can consult your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Management and treatment

If you experience a headache while taking Augmentin, consult your doctor for proper evaluation. In most cases, headaches resolve on their own once the medication is discontinued. 

Warning:
Augmentin can potentially cause harm to a nursing infant, which can cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. So, you should inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid any potential risks to your baby’s health. 

However, your healthcare provider may recommend pain relief medication or other treatments to manage symptoms.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration can make headaches worse, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re experiencing a headache. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Rest

Getting adequate rest can help reduce headache intensity. If you’re experiencing a headache, try to rest in a quiet, dark room with minimal sensory stimulation. Close your eyes and practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to help alleviate headache intensity.

Over-the-counter pain relievers

Over-the-counter pain medications can provide relief from mild to moderate headaches. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) are commonly used to alleviate headache pain. 

You can easily get Brufen400  Ibuprofen from WowRx at an affordable price. 

Conclusion

While Augmentin is an effective antibiotic for treating bacterial infections, it may occasionally cause headaches as a side effect. These headaches are limited to mild to moderate. Factors such as its impact on the central nervous system, blood flow in the brain, and interaction with certain medication like Warfarin can cause headache. 

While most headaches resolve on their own once the medication is discontinued, your healthcare provider may recommend pain relief medication. Additionally, staying hydrated and getting adequate rest help to alleviate headache discomfort. 

Being aware of potential side effects like headaches while taking Augmentin can ensure timely management and a smoother treatment experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is headache a side effect of Augmentin?

Yes, headache is listed as one of the possible side effects of Augmentin. While not everyone who takes Augmentin will experience headaches, it is recognized as a potential adverse reaction.

What to do if Augmentin gives headache?

If you experience a headache while taking Augmentin, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance. Your healthcare provider may prescribe pain relief medication or other treatments to manage symptoms. Additionally, staying hydrated and getting adequate rest help to alleviate headache discomfort.

Can Augmentin cause migraines?

Augmentin is known to cause headaches as a side effect, but there have been no reports of migraines. The headaches are usually mild and temporary, but it is important to seek medical attention if they are severe or persistent. 

Can I stop Augmentin after 5 days?

Completing the full course of antibiotics as your healthcare provider prescribes is crucial. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor before making any decision. Stopping Augmentin prematurely can lead to incomplete eradication of the bacterial infection, increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance.  

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