Meroclav
Generic Name
Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| meroclav 250 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
| meroclav 500 mg tablet | ৳ 50.00 | ৳ 500.00 |
| meroclav 125 mg suspension | ৳ 250.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meroclav is a combination antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It contains Amoxicillin, a penicillin-type antibiotic, and Clavulanic Acid, a beta-lactamase inhibitor that prevents bacteria from inactivating Amoxicillin.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Standard dosage: 500 mg Amoxicillin/125 mg Clavulanic Acid three times daily, or 875 mg Amoxicillin/125 mg Clavulanic Acid twice daily.
Elderly
Similar to adults, but dosage adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients with impaired renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment is required based on creatinine clearance. For CrCl 10-30 mL/min: 500 mg/125 mg every 12 hours. For CrCl < 10 mL/min: 500 mg/125 mg every 24 hours.
How to Take
Take at the start of a meal to minimize potential gastrointestinal intolerance and to enhance the absorption of clavulanate.
Mechanism of Action
Amoxicillin acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Clavulanic acid protects amoxicillin from degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by resistant bacteria, thereby extending amoxicillin's spectrum of activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid
Excretion
Both components are primarily eliminated unchanged by the kidneys. Amoxicillin: approximately 60-70% excreted unchanged in urine; Clavulanic acid: approximately 25-40% excreted unchanged in urine.
Half life
Amoxicillin: approximately 1.3 hours; Clavulanic acid: approximately 1.0 hour.
Absorption
Both amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium are well absorbed after oral administration. Peak serum concentrations occur approximately 1-2 hours after dosing.
Metabolism
Amoxicillin is minimally metabolized. Clavulanic acid is extensively metabolized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins)
- Previous history of amoxicillin/clavulanate-associated jaundice or hepatic dysfunction
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May prolong prothrombin time (INR) and increase risk of bleeding.
Probenecid
Decreases renal tubular secretion of amoxicillin, resulting in increased and prolonged blood levels of amoxicillin (but not clavulanic acid).
Allopurinol
Increased incidence of skin rash, particularly in patients with hyperuricemia.
Methotrexate
Reduced renal clearance of methotrexate, potentially leading to increased methotrexate toxicity.
Oral Contraceptives
Potential for reduced efficacy of oral contraceptives (though evidence is weak).
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep the reconstituted suspension refrigerated (2-8°C) and discard after 7-10 days.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea) and disturbances of fluid and electrolyte balance. Management is symptomatic and supportive; hemodialysis can remove amoxicillin/clavulanate from circulation.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe, but use with caution and only if clearly needed. Small amounts of both active ingredients are excreted in breast milk; observe for potential adverse effects in the infant (e.g., diarrhea, candidiasis).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins)
- Previous history of amoxicillin/clavulanate-associated jaundice or hepatic dysfunction
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May prolong prothrombin time (INR) and increase risk of bleeding.
Probenecid
Decreases renal tubular secretion of amoxicillin, resulting in increased and prolonged blood levels of amoxicillin (but not clavulanic acid).
Allopurinol
Increased incidence of skin rash, particularly in patients with hyperuricemia.
Methotrexate
Reduced renal clearance of methotrexate, potentially leading to increased methotrexate toxicity.
Oral Contraceptives
Potential for reduced efficacy of oral contraceptives (though evidence is weak).
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep the reconstituted suspension refrigerated (2-8°C) and discard after 7-10 days.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea) and disturbances of fluid and electrolyte balance. Management is symptomatic and supportive; hemodialysis can remove amoxicillin/clavulanate from circulation.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe, but use with caution and only if clearly needed. Small amounts of both active ingredients are excreted in breast milk; observe for potential adverse effects in the infant (e.g., diarrhea, candidiasis).
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months for tablets. Reconstituted suspension has a shelf life of 7-10 days when refrigerated.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials since its introduction, demonstrating efficacy and safety across a wide range of bacterial infections.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or prolonged therapy)
- Renal function tests (in patients with renal impairment)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of completing the full prescribed course of therapy.
- Caution in patients with a history of liver dysfunction or severe renal impairment.
- Advise patients on potential for C. difficile infection.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to prevent recurrence and development of antibiotic resistance.
- Do not share this medication with others.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness or confusion. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Include probiotics in your diet to help manage potential gut flora disturbances.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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Meroclav
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Meroclav
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Meroclav
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