Calmentine for Oral: A Brand of Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid

What it is

Calmentine for Oral is a brand of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations. The amoxicillin kills bacteria while the clavulanic acid stops certain bacteria from breaking down the amoxicillin, making the medicine work against a wider range of germs.

What it's used for

According to the prescribing information, Calmentine for Oral is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria. These include lower respiratory tract infections, acute bacterial otitis media (middle ear infection), sinusitis, and skin and skin structure infections. It is specifically for infections due to beta-lactamase–producing isolates of bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli.

How it's taken

Calmentine for Oral is a powder that must be mixed with water to form a suspension before use. Dosing depends on the patient's weight and age. For adults and children weighing more than 40 kg, the typical dose is 500 mg or 875 mg every 12 hours, or 250 mg or 500 mg every 8 hours (based on the amoxicillin part). For children aged 12 weeks and older, the dose is calculated by weight: 25 to 45 mg per kg per day divided every 12 hours, or 20 to 40 mg per kg per day divided every 8 hours, up to the adult dose. For infants under 12 weeks, the dose is 30 mg per kg per day divided every 12 hours. Always follow the exact instructions from a doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects

The most frequently reported side effects in studies include diarrhea or loose stools (9%), nausea (3%), skin rashes and hives (3%), vomiting (1%), and vaginal yeast infection (1%). More serious side effects – such as severe allergic reactions, severe skin reactions, liver problems, and diarrhea caused by Clostridioides difficile – are possible and require immediate medical attention.

Important cautions

Calmentine for Oral should not be used in people who have had a serious allergic reaction to amoxicillin, clavulanate, or other beta-lactam antibiotics (like penicillins or cephalosporins). It is also contraindicated in those who have had liver damage or jaundice from a previous dose of this medicine. If an allergic reaction occurs, stop the medicine and get emergency help. Watch for signs of severe skin reactions, liver problems (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine), or persistent diarrhea. Patients with mononucleosis should not take this drug because it can cause a widespread rash.

Frequently asked questions