Meroclav
Generic Name
Amoxicillin Trihydrate + Clavulanic Acid
Manufacturer
Generic Pharmaceutical Company
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| meroclav 250 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meroclav 250 mg tablet is a combination antibiotic containing Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid. It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections that are resistant to amoxicillin alone due to beta-lactamase producing bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
The usual adult dose is one Meroclav 250 mg/62.5 mg tablet three times daily. Doses should be adjusted based on the severity of infection and patient's condition.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution should be exercised and dose adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients with impaired renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is required for patients with creatinine clearance <30 mL/min. Specific dosing regimens should be followed based on the degree of impairment.
How to Take
Meroclav tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. To minimize potential gastrointestinal intolerance, it is recommended to take the medicine at the start of a meal.
Mechanism of Action
Amoxicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial lysis and death. Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that protects amoxicillin from degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by resistant bacteria, thereby extending amoxicillin's antimicrobial spectrum.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset of action, typically within 1 hour.
Excretion
Primarily renally excreted (via urine) as unchanged drug and metabolites. Impaired renal function prolongs elimination half-lives.
Half life
Amoxicillin: approximately 1-1.5 hours; Clavulanic acid: approximately 1 hour.
Absorption
Both amoxicillin and clavulanic acid are well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 1-2 hours after dosing. Absorption is not significantly affected by food.
Metabolism
Amoxicillin is largely excreted unchanged; about 10-25% is metabolized to inactive penicilloic acid. Clavulanic acid is extensively metabolized to inactive compounds.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, clavulanic acid, or any other penicillin antibiotic.
- History of severe immediate hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other beta-lactam agent (e.g., cephalosporins, carbapenems).
- History of jaundice or hepatic dysfunction associated with previous amoxicillin-clavulanate therapy.
Drug Interactions
Allopurinol
Increased incidence of skin rash, particularly in patients with hyperuricemia.
Methotrexate
Increased methotrexate toxicity due to reduced renal excretion. Co-administration should be avoided or closely monitored.
Oral Contraceptives
Potential for reduced efficacy of oral contraceptives. Advise alternative or additional contraceptive methods.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased INR (International Normalised Ratio) and bleeding risk. Close monitoring of INR is recommended.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and disturbances of fluid and electrolyte balance. Renal impairment may lead to amoxicillin crystalluria. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis can be used to remove amoxicillin/clavulanate from circulation.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk. Both amoxicillin and clavulanic acid are excreted into breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, clavulanic acid, or any other penicillin antibiotic.
- History of severe immediate hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other beta-lactam agent (e.g., cephalosporins, carbapenems).
- History of jaundice or hepatic dysfunction associated with previous amoxicillin-clavulanate therapy.
Drug Interactions
Allopurinol
Increased incidence of skin rash, particularly in patients with hyperuricemia.
Methotrexate
Increased methotrexate toxicity due to reduced renal excretion. Co-administration should be avoided or closely monitored.
Oral Contraceptives
Potential for reduced efficacy of oral contraceptives. Advise alternative or additional contraceptive methods.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased INR (International Normalised Ratio) and bleeding risk. Close monitoring of INR is recommended.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and disturbances of fluid and electrolyte balance. Renal impairment may lead to amoxicillin crystalluria. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis can be used to remove amoxicillin/clavulanate from circulation.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk. Both amoxicillin and clavulanic acid are excreted into breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from the date of manufacture, specific details on packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by national health authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent, available as generics
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Amoxicillin/clavulanate is a well-established antibiotic combination with extensive clinical trial data supporting its efficacy and safety in various bacterial infections. Post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor its long-term effects.
Lab Monitoring
- Periodic assessment of renal, hepatic, and hematopoietic function is advisable during prolonged therapy.
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin) in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or during prolonged treatment.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of completing the full prescribed course to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Advise patients to report any signs of liver dysfunction or severe allergic reactions immediately.
Patient Guidelines
- Always complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
- Store the medicine as directed and keep it out of reach of children.
- Report any severe side effects or allergic reactions to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Meroclav generally does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, some side effects like dizziness may occur, which could impair these abilities. If you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
- Consider taking probiotics to help prevent or manage antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Meroclav Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
