Africlav: A Brand of Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid for Bacterial Infections

What it is

Africlav is a brand of the generic combination amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as penicillin-type drugs combined with a beta-lactamase inhibitor. The clavulanic acid helps prevent certain bacteria from destroying the amoxicillin, making the antibiotic more effective against resistant bacteria. Each tablet contains 875 mg of amoxicillin and 125 mg of clavulanic acid.

What it's used for

Africlav is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible bacteria. These include lower respiratory tract infections (such as those caused by Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis), acute bacterial otitis media (middle ear infection), sinusitis, and skin and skin structure infections (including those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli). It is for use in adults and pediatric patients.

How it's taken

Africlav is taken by mouth as a tablet. Dosing is typically based on the amoxicillin component and depends on the patient's age, weight, and the severity of infection. For adults weighing more than 40 kg, common doses include 875 mg every 12 hours or 500 mg every 8 hours. For children and infants, doses are calculated by weight (e.g., 25 to 45 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours for children 3 months and older). Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions exactly.

Common side effects

The most frequently reported side effects include diarrhoea or loose stools (9%), nausea (3%), skin rashes and hives (3%), vomiting (1%), and vaginitis (1%). Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions, severe skin reactions, liver problems, and diarrhoea caused by Clostridioides difficile. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, stop taking the medicine and seek medical help immediately.

Important cautions

Do not take Africlav if you have had a serious allergic reaction to amoxicillin, clavulanate, or any other penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotic. Also avoid it if you have ever had liver problems (jaundice or hepatitis) caused by amoxicillin and clavulanate. This medicine can cause severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, and severe skin reactions. If a rash appears and spreads, stop and see a doctor. Liver dysfunction has been reported; stop if you notice signs of hepatitis (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain). Use with caution in patients with mononucleosis (glandular fever) as it can cause a rash.

Frequently asked questions