Thursday, October 27, 2016

Alesse


Generic Name: ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel (ETH in ill ess tra DYE ol and LEE vo nor JESS trel)

Brand Names: Alesse, Aviane, Enpresse, Lessina, Levlen, Levlite, Levora, Lutera, Lybrel, Nordette, Portia, Sronyx, Tri-Levlen, Triphasil-21, Triphasil-28, Trivora-28


What is ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel?

Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel contains a combination of female hormones that prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). This medication also causes changes in your cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.


Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel are used as contraception to prevent pregnancy.


Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel?


Do not use ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel if you are pregnant or if you recently had a baby. Do not use this medication if you have a history of stroke or blood clot, circulation problems (especially if caused by diabetes), a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease or liver cancer, severe high blood pressure, migraine headaches, a heart valve disorder, or a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills. Taking hormones can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you smoke and are older than 35.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel?


This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant, or if you miss two menstrual periods in a row. If you have recently had a baby, wait at least 4 weeks before taking birth control pills (6 weeks if you are breast-feeding). Do not use this medication if you have:

  • a history of a stroke or blood clot;




  • circulation problems (especially if caused by diabetes);




  • a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer;




  • abnormal vaginal bleeding;




  • liver disease or liver cancer;




  • severe high blood pressure;




  • severe migraine headaches;




  • a heart valve disorder; or




  • a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills.



Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have:



  • high blood pressure, heart disease, congestive heart failure, angina (chest pain), or a history of heart attack;




  • high cholesterol or if you are overweight;




  • a history of depression;




  • gallbladder disease;




  • diabetes;




  • seizures or epilepsy;




  • a history of irregular menstrual cycles;




  • a history of fibrocystic breast disease, lumps, nodules, or an abnormal mammogram;




  • uterine fibroid tumors;




  • varicose veins; or




  • tuberculosis.




The hormones in birth control pills can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. This medication may also slow breast milk production. Do not use if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel?


Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. You will take your first pill on the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period begins (follow your doctor's instructions).


You may need to use back-up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide, when you first start using this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions.


Some 28-day birth control packs contain seven "reminder" pills to keep you on your regular cycle. Your period will usually begin while you are using these reminder pills.


Breakthrough bleeding may occur, especially during the first 3 months. Tell your doctor if this bleeding continues or is very heavy.

Take one pill every day, no more than 24 hours apart. When the pills run out, start a new pack the next day. You may get pregnant if you do not use this medication regularly.


If you need to have any type of medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are using birth control pills.


Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Missing a pill increases your risk of becoming pregnant.


If you miss one "active" pill, take two pills on the day that you remember. Then take one pill per day for the rest of the pack.


If you miss two "active" pills in a row in week one or two, take two pills per day for two days in a row. Then take one pill per day for the rest of the pack. Use back-up birth control for at least 7 days following the missed pills.


If you miss two "active" pills in a row in week three, or if you miss three pills in a row during any of the first 3 weeks, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new one the same day if you are a Day 1 starter. If you are a Sunday starter, keep taking a pill every day until Sunday. On Sunday, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new one that day.


If you miss three "active" pills in a row during any of the first 3 weeks, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new pack on the same day if you are a Day 1 starter. If you are a Sunday starter, keep taking a pill every day until Sunday. On Sunday, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new one that day.


If you miss two or more pills, you may not have a period during the month. If you miss a period for two months in a row, call your doctor because you might be pregnant.

If you miss any reminder pills, throw them away and keep taking one pill per day until the pack is empty. You do not need back-up birth control if you miss a reminder pill.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.


What should I avoid while taking ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel?


Do not smoke while using birth control pills, especially if you are older than 35. Smoking can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack caused by birth control pills.

Birth control pills will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases--including HIV and AIDS. Using a condom is the only way to protect yourself from these diseases.


Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;




  • sudden headache, confusion, pain behind the eyes, problems with vision, speech, or balance;




  • chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;




  • a change in the pattern or severity of migraine headaches;




  • nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);




  • swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet; or




  • symptoms of depression (sleep problems, weakness, mood changes).



Less serious side effects may include:



  • mild nausea, vomiting, bloating, stomach cramps;




  • breast pain, tenderness, or swelling;




  • freckles or darkening of facial skin;




  • increased hair growth, loss of scalp hair;




  • changes in weight or appetite;




  • problems with contact lenses;




  • vaginal itching or discharge;




  • changes in your menstrual periods, decreased sex drive; or




  • headache, nervousness, dizziness, tired feeling.



This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel?


Some drugs can make birth control pills less effective, which may result in pregnancy. Before using birth control pills, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:



  • acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ascorbic acid (vitamin C);




  • prednisolone (Orapred);




  • theophylline (Respbid, Theo-Dur);




  • cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf);




  • St. John's wort;




  • an antibiotic;




  • seizure medications;




  • a barbiturate sedative such as secobarbital (Seconal), or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton); or




  • HIV or AIDS medications.



This list is not complete and there may be other drugs not listed that can affect birth control pills. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Alesse resources


  • Alesse Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Alesse Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Alesse Drug Interactions
  • Alesse Support Group
  • 16 Reviews for Alesse - Add your own review/rating


  • Alesse Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Alesse MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Alesse Consumer Overview

  • Alesse Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Altavera Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Amethia Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Amethyst Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Aviane Consumer Overview

  • Camrese Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Enpresse Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Jolessa Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Jolessa MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Lessina Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Levlite Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Levora Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • LoSeasonique Consumer Overview

  • LoSeasonique MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • LoSeasonique Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Lybrel Consumer Overview

  • Lybrel MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Lybrel Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Nordette Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Orsythia Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Portia Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Preven EC Consumer Overview

  • Quasense Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Seasonale Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Seasonale Consumer Overview

  • Seasonique Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Seasonique Consumer Overview

  • Sronyx Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Tri-Levlen Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Triphasil Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Triphasil Consumer Overview



Compare Alesse with other medications


  • Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
  • Birth Control
  • Endometriosis
  • Gonadotropin Inhibition
  • Ovarian Cysts
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel.

See also: Alesse side effects (in more detail)



Perindopril


Pronunciation: per-IN-doe-prill
Generic Name: Perindopril
Brand Name: Aceon

This drug may cause injury or death to the fetus if used during pregnancy. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away.





Perindopril is used for:

Treating high blood pressure. It may be used alone or along with other medicines. It is also used to reduce the risk of heart attack or death caused by heart problems in patients with stable coronary artery disease. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Perindopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by relaxing blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure.


Do NOT use Perindopril if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Perindopril

  • you are pregnant

  • you have a history of angioedema (swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness), including angioedema caused by treatment with an ACE inhibitor (eg, lisinopril)

  • you have severe kidney problems

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Perindopril:


Some medical conditions may interact with Perindopril. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you are able to become pregnant

  • if you have a history of heart problems (eg, heart failure), blood vessel problems (eg, brain or heart blood vessels), bone marrow problems, liver problems, or kidney problems (eg, renal artery stenosis)

  • if you have a history of a stroke or kidney transplant

  • if you have an autoimmune disease (eg, lupus, scleroderma)

  • if you are dehydrated or have low blood volume

  • if you have high blood potassium levels, low blood sodium levels, or are on a low-salt (sodium) diet

  • if you have diabetes, especially if you are also taking aliskiren

  • if you are on dialysis or are scheduled to have surgery

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Perindopril. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Aldosterone blockers (eg, eplerenone), aliskiren, cyclosporine, potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene), potassium supplements, or trimethoprim because the risk of high blood potassium levels may be increased

  • Angiotensin receptor blockers (eg, valsartan) because the risk of serious kidney problems and high blood potassium levels may be increased

  • Gold-containing medicines (eg, auranofin) because flushing, nausea, vomiting, and low blood pressure may occur

  • Dextran sulfate, diuretics (eg, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide), or mTOR inhibitors (eg, everolimus) because they may increase the risk of Perindopril's side effects

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen, indomethacin) or salicylates (eg, aspirin) because they may decrease Perindopril's effectiveness

  • Lithium or sulfonylureas (eg, glyburide) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Perindopril

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Perindopril may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Perindopril:


Use Perindopril as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Take Perindopril by mouth with or without food.

  • Take Perindopril on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it.

  • Taking Perindopril at the same time(s) each day will help you to remember to take it.

  • Continue taking Perindopril even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

  • If you miss a dose of Perindopril, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Perindopril.



Important safety information:


  • Perindopril may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Perindopril with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

  • Perindopril may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects. Avoid sudden changes in posture.

  • Drink plenty of fluids while taking Perindopril and avoid engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating. Dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea may increase the risk of low blood pressure. Contact your health care provider at once if any of these occur.

  • A persistent, unproductive cough may occur. Tell your doctor if this occurs. If caused by Perindopril, this type of cough generally recovers after Perindopril is stopped.

  • Patients who take medicine for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel "normal." Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms.

  • Perindopril may cause a serious side effect called angioedema. Contact your doctor at once if you develop swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness.

  • Perindopril may not work as well in black patients. They may also be at greater risk of side effects. Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse.

  • Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Perindopril before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

  • Rarely, Perindopril may lower the ability of your body to fight infection. This risk may be greater if you have certain other health problems (eg, kidney problems, collagen vascular disease). Avoid contact with people who have colds or infections. Tell your doctor if you notice signs of infection like fever, sore throat, rash, or chills.

  • Check with your doctor before you use a salt substitute or a product that has potassium in it.

  • If you have high blood pressure, do not use nonprescription products that contain stimulants. These products may include diet pills or cold medicines. Contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

  • Lab tests, including liver function, kidney function, blood pressure, and blood electrolyte levels, may be performed while you use Perindopril. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Use Perindopril with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially dizziness and rash.

  • Perindopril should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Perindopril may cause birth defects/fetal and newborn death if you take it while you are pregnant. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. It is not known if Perindopril is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Perindopril, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Perindopril:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Arm or leg pain; back pain; cough; diarrhea; dizziness; headache; runny nose; weakness.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; hoarseness); chest pain; confusion; decreased, difficult, or painful urination; depression; difficulty swallowing; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or sore throat; numbness of an arm or leg; one-sided weakness; prolonged or severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; stomach pain (with or without nausea or vomiting); sudden, severe headache; swelling of the hands, legs, or trunk; symptoms of liver problems (eg, dark urine, loss of appetite, pale stools, yellowing of the skin or eyes); symptoms of low blood pressure (eg, fainting, severe dizziness, lightheadedness); unusual tiredness or weakness; vision or speech problems.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Perindopril side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include fainting; severe dizziness or lightheadedness; weakness.


Proper storage of Perindopril:

Store Perindopril at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep Perindopril out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Perindopril, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Perindopril is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Perindopril. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Perindopril resources


  • Perindopril Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Perindopril Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Perindopril Drug Interactions
  • Perindopril Support Group
  • 1 Review for Perindopril - Add your own review/rating


  • Perindopril Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • perindopril Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Aceon Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Aceon Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Aceon Consumer Overview



Compare Perindopril with other medications


  • Coronary Artery Disease
  • Diabetic Kidney Disease
  • Heart Attack
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  • High Blood Pressure
  • Left Ventricular Dysfunction


Amoclan



amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium

Dosage Form: oral suspension

Rev. June/08

Rx Only


To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension and other antibacterial drugs, amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.



Amoclan Description


Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension is an oral antibacterial combination consisting of the semisynthetic antibiotic amoxicillin and the "ß-lactamase inhibitor, clavulanate potassium (the potassium salt of clavulanic acid). Amoxicillin is an analog of ampicillin, derived from the basic penicillin nucleus, 6-aminopenicillanic acid. The amoxicillin molecular formula is C16H19N3O5S•3H2O, and the molecular weight is 419.46. Chemically, amoxicillin is (2S,5R,6R) - 6 - [(R) - ( - ) - 2 - Amino - 2 - (p - hydroxyphenyl)acetamido] - 3,3 - dimethyl - 7 - oxo - 4 - thia - 1 - azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane - 2 - carboxylic acid trihydrate and may be represented structurally as:



Clavulanic acid is produced by the fermentation of Streptomyces clavuligerus. It is a ß-lactam structurally related to the penicillins and possesses the ability to inactivate a wide variety of ß-lactamases by blocking the active sites of these enzymes. Clavulanic acid is particularly active against the clinically important plasmid-mediated ß-lactamases frequently responsible for transferred drug resistance to penicillins and cephalosporins. The clavulanate potassium molecular formula is C8H8KNO5 and the molecular weight is 237.25. Chemically, clavulanate potassium is potassium (Z)-(2R,5R)-3-(2-hydroxyethylidene)-7-oxo-4-oxa-1-azabicyclo[3.2.0]-heptane-2-carboxylate and may be represented structurally as:



Inactive Ingredients: Powder for Oral Suspension— Aspartame, colloidal silicon dioxide, hypromellose, orange powder flavor, silicon dioxide, succinic acid, xanthan gum.


  • See PRECAUTIONS–Information for the Patient/Phenylketonurics.

Each 5 mL of reconstituted amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL contains 0.248 mEq potassium.



Amoclan - Clinical Pharmacology


The pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin and clavulanate were determined in a study of 19 pediatric patients, 8 months to 11 years, given amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL suspension at an amoxicillin dose of 45 mg/kg q12h with a snack or meal. The mean plasma amoxicillin and clavulanate pharmacokinetic parameter values are listed in the following table.























Table 1. Mean (±SD) Plasma Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Pharmacokinetic Parameter Values Following Administration of 45 mg/kg of Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL Every 12 Hours to Pediatric Patients
Parameter*AmoxicillinClavulanate

*Arithmetic mean ± standard deviation, except Tmax values which are medians (ranges).


Cmax (mcg/mL)15.7 ± 7.71.7 ± 0.9
Tmax (hr)2.0 (1.0 – 4.0)1.1 (1.0 – 4.0)
AUC0-t (mcg•hr/mL)59.8 ± 20.04.0 ± 1.9
T½ (hr)1.4 ± 0.31.1 ± 0.3
CL/F (L/hr/kg)0.9 ± 0.41.1 ± 1.1

The effect of food on the oral absorption of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL has not been studied.


Approximately 50% to 70% of the amoxicillin and approximately 25% to 40% of the clavulanic acid are excreted unchanged in urine during the first 6 hours after administration of 10 mL of 250 mg/62.5 mg per 5 mL suspension of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium.


Concurrent administration of probenecid delays amoxicillin excretion but does not delay renal excretion of clavulanic acid.


Neither component in amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension is highly protein-bound; clavulanic acid has been found to be approximately 25% bound to human serum and amoxicillin approximately 18% bound.


Oral administration of a single dose of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL at 45 mg/kg (based on the amoxicillin component) to pediatric patients, 9 months to 8 years, yielded the following pharmacokinetic data for amoxicillin in plasma and middle ear fluid (MEF):




















Table 2. Amoxicillin Concentrations in Plasma and Middle Ear Fluid Following Administration of 45 mg/kg of Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL to Pediatric Patients
TimepointAmoxicillin

concentration in

plasma(mcg/mL)
Amoxicillin

concentration in

MEF(mcg/mL)

Dose administered immediately prior to eating.


1 hourmean

median

range
7.7

9.3

1.5 – 14.0

(n = 5)
3.2

3.5

0.2 – 5.5

(n = 4)
2 hourmean

median

range
15.7

13.0

11.0 – 25.0

(n = 7)
3.3

2.4

1.9 – 6.0

(n = 5)
3 hourmean

median

range
13.0

12.0

5.5 – 21.0

(n = 5)
5.8

6.5

3.9 – 7.4

(n = 5)

Amoxicillin diffuses readily into most body tissues and fluids with the exception of the brain and spinal fluid. The results of experiments involving the administration of clavulanic acid to animals suggest that this compound, like amoxicillin, is well distributed in body tissues.



Microbiology: Amoxicillin is a semisynthetic antibiotic with a broad spectrum of bactericidal activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Amoxicillin is, however, susceptible to degradation by ß-lactamases, and therefore, its spectrum of activity does not include organisms which produce these enzymes. Clavulanic acid is a ß-lactam, structurally related to penicillin, which possesses the ability to inactivate a wide range of ß-lactamase enzymes commonly found in microorganisms resistant to penicillins and cephalosporins. In particular, it has good activity against the clinically important plasmid-mediated ß-lactamases frequently found responsible for transferred drug resistance.


The clavulanic acid component of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL protects amoxicillin from degradation by ß-lactamase enzymes and effectively extends the antibiotic spectrum of amoxicillin to include many bacteria normally resistant to amoxicillin and other ß-lactam antibiotics. Thus, amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL possesses the distinctive properties of a broad-spectrum antibiotic and a ß-lactamase inhibitor.


Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section.


Aerobic Gram-Positive Microorganisms:

Streptococcus pneumoniae (including isolates with penicillin MICs ≤ 2 mcg/mL)


Aerobic Gram-Negative Microorganisms:

Haemophilus influenzae (including ß-lactamase–producing isolates)


Moraxella catarrhalis (including ß-lactamase–producing isolates)


The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown.


At least 90% of the following microorganisms exhibit in vitro minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. However, the safety and efficacy of amoxicillin/clavulanic acid in treating infections due to these microorganisms have not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials.


Aerobic Gram-Positive Microorganisms:

Staphylococcus aureus (including ß-lactamase–producing isolates)


NOTE: Staphylococci which are resistant to methicillin/oxacillin must be considered resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid.


Streptococcus pyogenes


NOTE: S. pyogenes do not produce ß-lactamase, and therefore, are susceptible to amoxicillin alone. Adequate and well-controlled clinical trials have established the effectiveness of amoxicillin alone in treating certain clinical infections due to S. pyogenes.



Susceptibility Test Methods: When available, the clinical microbiology laboratory should provide cumulative results of in vitro susceptibility test results for antimicrobial drugs used in local hospitals and practice areas to the physician as periodic reports that describe the susceptibility profile of nosocomial and community-acquired pathogens. These reports should aid the physician in selecting the most effective antimicrobial.



Dilution Technique: Quantitative methods are used to determine antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). These MICs provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The MICs should be determined using a standardized procedure.1,2 Standardized procedures are based on dilution methods (broth for S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae) or equivalent with standardized inoculum concentration and standardized concentrations of amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium powder.


The recommended dilution pattern utilizes a constant amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium ratio of 2 to 1 in all tubes with varying amounts of amoxicillin. MICs are expressed in terms of the amoxicillin concentration in the presence of clavulanic acid at a constant 2 parts amoxicillin to 1 part clavulanic acid. The MIC values should be interpreted according to criteria provided in Table 3.



Diffusion Technique: Quantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters also provides reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobials. One such standardized technique requires the use of a standardized inoculum concentration.2,3 This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 30 mcg amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium (20 mcg amoxicillin plus 10 mcg clavulanate potassium) to test susceptibility of microorganisms to amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium. Disk diffusion zone sizes should be interpreted according to criteria provided in Table 3.



























Table 3. Susceptibility Test Result Interpretive Criteria for Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium
Pthogen
Minimum

Inhibitory Concentration

(mcg/ml)
Disk Diffusion

(Zone Diameter in mm)
SIRSIR

NOTE: Susceptibility of S. pneumoniae should be determined using a 1-mcg oxacillin disk. Isolates with oxacillin zone sizes of ≥ 20 mm are susceptible to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. An amoxicillin/clavulanic acid MIC should be determined on isolates of S. pneumoniae with oxacillin zone sizes of ≤ 19 mm.



NOTE: ß-lactamase–negative, ampicillin-resistant H. influenzae isolates must be considered resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid.


Streptococcus pneumoniae≤2/14/2≥8/4Not applicable (NA)
Haemophilus influenzae≤4/2NA≥8/4≥20NA≤19

A report of S (“Susceptible”) indicates that the antimicrobial is likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentration usually achievable. A report of I (“Intermediate”) indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and, if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative, clinically feasible antimicrobials, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where high doses of antimicrobial can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone that prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of R (“Resistant”) indicates that the antimicrobial is not likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentration usually achievable; other therapy should be selected.


Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of quality control microorganisms to determine the performance of the test procedures.1-3 Standard amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium powder should provide the MIC ranges for the quality control organisms in Table 4. For the disk diffusion technique, the 30 mcg-amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium disk should provide the zone diameter ranges for the quality control organisms in Table 4.


















Table 4. Acceptable Quality Control Ranges for Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium
Quality Control OrganismMinimum Inhibitory Concentration Range (mcg/ml)Disk Diffusion (Zone Diameter Range in mm)

*ATCC is a trademark of the American Type Culture Collection.



† When using Haemophilus Test Medium (HTM).


Escherichia coli ATCC®*35218†

    (H. influenzae quality control)
4/2 to 16/817 to 22
Haemophilus influenzae ATCC 492472/1 to 16/815 to 23
Streptococcus pneumoniae ATCC 496190.03/0.016 to 0.12/0.06NA

Indications and Usage for Amoclan


Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL is indicated for the treatment of pediatric patients with recurrent or persistent acute otitis media due to S. pneumoniae (penicillin MICs ≤2 mcg/mL), H. influenzae (including β-lactamase–producing strains), or M. catarrhalis (including β-lactamase–producing strains) characterized by the following risk factors:


  • antibiotic exposure for acute otitis media within the preceding 3 months, and either of the following:

    age ≤2 years


    daycare attendance


[See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Microbiology.]


NOTE: Acute otitis media due to S. pneumoniae alone can be treated with amoxicillin. Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL is not indicated for the treatment of acute otitis media due to S. pneumoniae with penicillin MIC ≥4 mcg/mL.


Therapy may be instituted prior to obtaining the results from bacteriological studies when there is reason to believe the infection may involve both S. pneumoniae (penicillin MIC ≤2 mcg/mL) and the β-lactamase–producing organisms listed above.


To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL and other antibacterial drugs, amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.



Contraindications


Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to any penicillin. It is also contraindicated in patients with a previous history of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium.



Warnings


SERIOUS AND OCCASIONALLY FATAL HYPERSENSITIVITY (ANAPHYLACTIC) REACTIONS HAVE BEEN REPORTED IN PATIENTS ON PENICILLIN THERAPY. THESE REACTIONS ARE MORE LIKELY TO OCCUR IN INDIVIDUALS WITH A HISTORY OF PENICILLIN HYPERSENSITIVITY AND/OR A HISTORY OF SENSITIVITY TO MULTIPLE ALLERGENS. THERE HAVE BEEN REPORTS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH A HISTORY OF PENICILLIN HYPERSENSITIVITY WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED SEVERE REACTIONS WHEN TREATED WITH CEPHALOSPORINS. BEFORE INITIATING THERAPY WITH AMOXICILLIN AND CLAVULANATE POTASSIUM FOR ORAL SUSPENSION, 600 MG/42.9 MG PER 5 ML, CAREFUL INQUIRY SHOULD BE MADE CONCERNING PREVIOUS HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS TO PENICILLINS, CEPHALOSPORINS, OR OTHER ALLERGENS. IF AN ALLERGIC REACTION OCCURS, AMOXICILLIN AND CLAVULANATE POTASSIUM FOR ORAL SUSPENSION, 600 MG/42.9 MG PER 5 ML SHOULD BE DISCONTINUED AND THE APPROPRIATE THERAPY INSTITUTED. SERIOUS ANAPHYLACTIC REACTIONS REQUIRE IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY TREATMENT WITH EPINEPHRINE. OXYGEN, INTRAVENOUS STEROIDS, AND AIRWAY MANAGEMENT, INCLUDING INTUBATION, SHOULD ALSO BE ADMINISTERED AS INDICATED.


Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.


C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.


If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.


Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL should be used with caution in patients with evidence of hepatic dysfunction. Hepatic toxicity associated with the use of amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium is usually reversible. On rare occasions, deaths have been reported (less than 1 death reported per estimated 4 million prescriptions worldwide). These have generally been cases associated with serious underlying diseases or concomitant medications. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS — Liver.)



Precautions



General: While amoxicillin/clavulanate possesses the characteristic low toxicity of the penicillin group of antibiotics, periodic assessment of organ system functions, including renal, hepatic, and hematopoietic function, is advisable if therapy is for longer than the drug is approved for administration.


A high percentage of patients with mononucleosis who receive ampicillin develop an erythematous skin rash. Thus, ampicillin-class antibiotics should not be administered to patients with mononucleosis.


The possibility of superinfections with mycotic or bacterial pathogens should be kept in mind during therapy. If superinfections occur (usually involving Pseudomonas or Candida), the drug should be discontinued and/or appropriate therapy instituted.


Prescribing amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.



Information for the Patient: amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL should be taken every 12 hours with a meal or snack to reduce the possibility of gastrointestinal upset. If diarrhea develops and is severe or lasts more than 2 or 3 days, call your doctor.


Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as 2 or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.


Keep suspension refrigerated. Shake well before using. When dosing a child with the suspension (liquid) of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL, use a dosing spoon or medicine dropper. Be sure to rinse the spoon or dropper after each use. Bottles of suspension of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL may contain more liquid than required. Follow your doctor's instructions about the amount to use and the days of treatment your child requires. Discard any unused medicine.


Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs, including amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may: (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment, and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, or other antibacterial drugs in the future.



Phenylketonurics: Each 5 mL of Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium for oral suspension 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL contains 7 mg phenylalanine.



Drug Interactions: Probenecid decreases the renal tubular secretion of amoxicillin. Concurrent use with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL may result in increased and prolonged blood levels of amoxicillin. Co-administration of probenecid cannot be recommended.


The concurrent administration of allopurinol and ampicillin increases substantially the incidence of rashes in patients receiving both drugs as compared to patients receiving ampicillin alone. It is not known whether this potentiation of ampicillin rashes is due to allopurinol or the hyperuricemia present in these patients. There are no data with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL and allopurinol administered concurrently.


In common with other broad-spectrum antibiotics, amoxicillin/clavulanate may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives.



Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions: Oral administration of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium will result in high urine concentrations of amoxicillin. High urine concentrations of ampicillin may result in false-positive reactions when testing for the presence of glucose in urine using CLINITEST®, Benedict's Solution, or Fehling's Solution. Since this effect may also occur with amoxicillin and therefore amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL, it is recommended that glucose tests based on enzymatic glucose oxidase reactions (such as CLINISTIX®) be used.


Following administration of ampicillin to pregnant women, a transient decrease in plasma concentration of total conjugated estriol, estriol-glucuronide, conjugated estrone, and estradiol has been noted. This effect may also occur with amoxicillin and therefore amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL.



Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility: Long-term studies in animals have not been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential. The mutagenic potential of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium was investigated in vitro with an Ames test, a human lymphocyte cytogenetic assay, a yeast test, and a mouse lymphoma forward mutation assay, and in vivo with mouse micronucleus tests and a dominant lethal test. All were negative apart from the in vitro mouse lymphoma assay where weak activity was found at very high, cytotoxic concentrations. Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium at oral doses of up to 1,200 mg/kg/day (5.7 times the maximum adult human dose based on body surface area) was found to have no effect on fertility and reproductive performance in rats, dosed with a 2:1 ratio formulation of amoxicillin:clavulanate.



Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy (Category B). Reproduction studies performed in pregnant rats and mice given amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium at oral dosages up to 1,200 mg/kg/day (4.9 and 2.8 times the maximum adult human oral dose based on body surface area, respectively), revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus due to amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.



Labor and Delivery: Oral ampicillin-class antibiotics are generally poorly absorbed during labor. Studies in guinea pigs have shown that intravenous administration of ampicillin decreased the uterine tone, frequency of contractions, height of contractions, and duration of contractions. However, it is not known whether the use of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium in humans during labor or delivery has immediate or delayed adverse effects on the fetus, prolongs the duration of labor, or increases the likelihood that forceps delivery or other obstetrical intervention or resuscitation of the newborn will be necessary. In a single study in women with premature rupture of fetal membranes, it was reported that prophylactic treatment with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium may be associated with an increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates.



Nursing Mothers: Ampicillin-class antibiotics are excreted in human milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium is administered to a nursing woman.



Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL in infants younger than 3 months have not been established. Safety and efficacy of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL have been demonstrated for treatment of acute otitis media in infants and children 3 months to 12 years (see Description of Clinical Studies).


The safety and effectiveness of amoxicillin and cavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL have been established for the treatment of pediatric patients (3 months to 12 years) with acute bacterial sinusitis. This use is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium Extended Release Tablets in adults with acute bacterial sinusitis, studies of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL in pediatric patients with acute otitis media, and by similar pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin and clavulanate in pediatric patients taking amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY) and adults taking amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium.



Adverse Reactions


Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL is generally well tolerated. The majority of side effects observed in pediatric clinical trials of acute otitis media were either mild or moderate, and transient in nature; 4.4% of patients discontinued therapy because of drug-related side effects. The most commonly reported side effects with probable or suspected relationship to amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL were contact dermatitis, i.e., diaper rash (3.5%), diarrhea (2.9%), vomiting (2.2%), moniliasis (1.4%), and rash (1.1%). The most common adverse experiences leading to withdrawal that were of probable or suspected relationship to amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL were diarrhea (2.5%) and vomiting (1.4%).


The following adverse reactions have been reported for ampicillin-class antibiotics:



Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, gastritis, stomatitis, glossitis, black “hairy” tongue, mucocutaneous candidiasis, enterocolitis, and hemorrhagic/pseudomembranous colitis. Onset of pseudomembranous colitis symptoms may occur during or after antibiotic treatment. (See WARNINGS.)



Hypersensitivity Reactions: Skin rashes, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema, serum sickness–like reactions (urticaria or skin rash accompanied by arthritis, arthralgia, myalgia, and frequently fever), erythema multiforme (rarely Stevens-Johnson syndrome), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, hypersensitivity vasculitis, and an occasional case of exfoliative dermatitis (including toxic epidermal necrolysis) have been reported. These reactions may be controlled with antihistamines and, if necessary, systemic corticosteroids. Whenever such reactions occur, the drug should be discontinued, unless the opinion of the physician dictates otherwise. Serious and occasional fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions can occur with oral penicillin. (See WARNINGS)



Liver: A moderate rise in AST (SGOT) and/or ALT (SGPT) has been noted in patients treated with ampicillin-class antibiotics, but the significance of these findings is unknown. Hepatic dysfunction, including hepatitis and cholestatic jaundice, (See CONTRAINDICATIONS.), increases in serum transaminases (AST and/or ALT), serum bilirubin, and/or alkaline phosphatase, has been infrequently reported with AUGMENTIN. It has been reported more commonly in the elderly, in males, or in patients on prolonged treatment. The histologic findings on liver biopsy have consisted of predominantly cholestatic, hepatocellular, or mixed cholestatic-hepatocellular changes. The onset of signs/symptoms of hepatic dysfunction may occur during or several weeks after therapy has been discontinued. The hepatic dysfunction, which may be severe, is usually reversible. On rare occasions, deaths have been reported (less than 1 death reported per estimated 4 million prescriptions worldwide). These have generally been cases associated with serious underlying diseases or concomitant medications.



Renal: Interstitial nephritis and hematuria have been reported rarely. Crystalluria has also been reported (see OVERDOSAGE).



Hemic and Lymphatic Systems: Anemia, including hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenic purpura, eosinophilia, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported during therapy with penicillins. These reactions are usually reversible on discontinuation of therapy and are believed to be hypersensitivity phenomena. A slight thrombocytosis was noted in less than 1% of the patients treated with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. There have been reports of increased prothrombin time in patients receiving amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium and anticoagulant therapy concomitantly.



Central Nervous System: Agitation, anxiety, behavioral changes, confusion, convulsions, dizziness, insomnia, and reversible hyperactivity have been reported rarely.



Miscellaneous: Tooth discoloration (brown, yellow, or gray staining) has been rarely reported. Most reports occurred in pediatric patients. Discoloration was reduced or eliminated with brushing or dental cleaning in most cases.



Overdosage


Following overdosage, patients have experienced primarily gastrointestinal symptoms including stomach and abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Rash, hyperactivity, or drowsiness have also been observed in a small number of patients.


In the case of overdosage, discontinue amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL, treat symptomatically, and institute supportive measures as required. If the overdosage is very recent and there is no contraindication, an attempt at emesis or other means of removal of drug from the stomach may be performed. A prospective study of 51 pediatric patients at a poison control center suggested that overdosages of less than 250 mg/kg of amoxicillin are not associated with significant clinical symptoms and do not require gastric emptying.4


Interstitial nephritis resulting in oliguric renal failure has been reported in a small number of patients after overdosage with amoxicillin.


Crystalluria, in some cases leading to renal failure, has also been reported after amoxicillin overdosage in adult and pediatric patients. In case of overdosage, adequate fluid intake and diuresis should be maintained to reduce the risk of amoxicillin crystalluria.


Renal impairment appears to be reversible with cessation of drug administration. High blood levels may occur more readily in patients with impaired renal function because of decreased renal clearance of both amoxicillin and clavulanate. Both amoxicillin and clavulanate are removed from the circulation by hemodialysis.



Amoclan Dosage and Administration


Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL, does not contain the same amount of clavulanic acid (as the potassium salt) as any of the other suspensions of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL contains 42.9 mg of clavulanic acid per 5 mL, whereas the 200 mg/28.5 mg per 5 mL suspension of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium contains 28.5 mg of clavulanic acid per 5 mL and the 400 mg/57 mg per 5 mL suspension contains 57 mg of clavulanic acid per 5 mL. Therefore, the 200 mg/28.5 mg per 5 mL and 400 mg/57 mg per 5 mL suspensions of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium shouldnotbe substituted for amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL, as they are not interchangeable.



Dosage: Pediatric patients 3 months and older: Based on the amoxicillin component (600 mg/5 mL), the recommended dose of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL is 90 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours, administered for 10 days (see chart below).




















Body Weight (kg)Volume of Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL providing 90 mg/kg/day
83.0 mL twice daily
124.5 mL twice daily
166.0 mL twice daily
207.5 mL twice daily
249.0 mL twice daily
2810.5 mL twice daily
3212.0 mL twice daily
3613.5 mL twice daily

Pediatric patients weighing 40 kg and more: Experience with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension,600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL in this group is not available.



Adults: Experience with amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL in adults is not available and adults who have difficulty swallowing should not be given amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL in place of the amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium 500-mg/125 mg or 875-mg/125 mg tablet.


Hepatically impaired patients should be dosed with caution and hepatic function monitored at regular intervals. (See WARNINGS.)



Directions for Mixing Oral Suspension: Prepare a suspension at time of dispensing as follows: Tap bottle until all the powder flows freely. Add approximately 2/3 of the total amount of water for reconstitution (see table below) and shake vigorously to suspend powder. Add remainder of the water and again shake vigorously.











Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL
Bottle SizeAmount of Water

Required for Reconstitution
75 mL66 mL
125 mL110 mL
200 mL176 mL

Each teaspoonful (5 mL) will contain 600 mg amoxicillin as the trihydrate and 42.9 mg of clavulanic acid as the potassium salt.


NOTE: SHAKE ORAL SUSPENSION WELL BEFORE USING.



Administration: To minimize the potential for gastrointestinal intolerance, amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL should be taken at the start of a meal. Absorption of clavulanate potassium may be enhanced when amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium is administered at the start of a meal.



How is Amoclan Supplied


Amoclan (Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for Oral Suspension USP 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL): Each 5 mL of reconstituted orange-flavored suspension contains 600 mg amoxicillin and 42.9 mg clavulanic acid as the potassium salt.


 

75 mL bottle

 

125 mL bottle

 

200 mL bottle


STORAGE


Store reconstituted suspension under refrigeration. Discard unused suspension after 10 days. Store dry powder for oral suspension at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Tempreture]. Dispense in original container.



Description of Clinical Studies


Two clinical studies were conducted in pediatric patients with acute otitis media.


A non-comparative, open-label study assessed the bacteriologic and clinical efficacy of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL (90/6.4 mg/kg/day, divided every 12 hours) for 10 days in 521 pediatric patients (3 to 50 months) with acute otitis media. The primary objective was to assess bacteriological response in children with acute otitis media due to S. pneumoniae with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid MICs of 4 mcg/mL. The study sought the enrollment of patients with the following risk factors: Failure of antibiotic therapy for acute otitis media in the previous 3 months, history of recurrent episodes of acute otitis media, ≤2 years, or daycare attendance. Prior to receiving amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL, all patients had tympanocentesis to obtain middle ear fluid for bacteriological evaluation. Patients from whom S. pneumoniae (alone or in combination with other bacteria) was isolated had a second tympanocentesis 4 to 6 days after the start of therapy. Clinical assessments were planned for all patients during treatment (4-6 days after starting therapy), as well as 2-4 days post-treatment and 15-18 days post-treatment. Bacteriological success was defined as the absence of the pretreatment pathogen from the on-therapy tympanocentesis specimen. Clinical success was defined as improvement or resolution of signs and symptoms. Clinical failure was defined as lack of improvement or worsening of signs and/or symptoms at any time following at least 72 hours of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, 600 mg/42.9 mg per 5 mL; patients who received an additional systemic antibacterial drug for otitis media after 3 days of therapy were considered clinical failures. Bacteriological eradication on therapy (day 4-6 visit) in the per protocol population is summarized in the following table:















Table 5. Bacteriologic Eradication Rates in the Per Protocol Population
Bacteriologic Eradication on Therapy
Pathogenn/N%95% CI*

*CI = confidence intervals; 95% CIs are not adjusted for multiple comparisons.


All S. pneumoniae121/12398.4(94.3, 99.8)

Agenerase



Generic Name: Amprenavir
Class: HIV Protease Inhibitors
VA Class: AM800
Chemical Name: [3S - [3R*(1R*,2S*)]] - [3 - [[(4 - Aminophenyl)sulfonyl] - (2 - methylpropyl)amino] - 2 - hydroxy - 1 - (phenylmethyl)propyl] tetrahydro-3-furanyl carbamate
Molecular Formula: C25H35N3O6S
CAS Number: 161814-49-9



  • Because of potential risk of toxicity from the large amount of propylene glycol contained in amprenavir oral solution, the oral solution is contraindicated in infants and children <4 years of age, pregnant women, patients with hepatic or renal failure, and those receiving metronidazole or disulfiram and should be used with caution in others.1 46 (See Contraindications and see Propylene Glycol-associated Toxicity under Cautions.)




  • Amprenavir oral solution should only be used when amprenavir capsules or other HIV protease inhibitors (PIs) cannot be used.46




Introduction

Antiretroviral; HIV protease inhibitor (PI).1 46


Uses for Agenerase


Treatment of HIV Infection


In August 2007, the manufacturer of amprenavir announced that sales of the drug would be discontinued as of October 2007.71 This action was taken because demand for amprenavir had declined substantially and because of the availability of other treatment options (e.g., fosamprenavir oral suspension for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in children).71 Patients receiving amprenavir should be evaluated for alternative treatment (e.g., an alternative PI or a different antiretroviral regimen).71


Treatment of HIV-1 infection in conjunction with other antiretrovirals.1 14 15 16 46


When selecting a PI-based regimen for initial therapy in adults, fosamprenavir (with or without low-dose ritonavir) recommended instead of amprenavir (lower pill burden, once-daily regimen possible, better GI tolerance).14


If selecting amprenavir for use in multiple-drug regimens, consider that amprenavir is less effective than indinavir in PI-naive patients, that mild to moderate adverse GI effects have led to discontinuance of amprenavir during the first 12 weeks of therapy, and that data are limited regarding response to amprenavir in PI-experienced patients.1 46


Agenerase Dosage and Administration


Administration


Oral Administration


Administer orally.1 May be given without regard to meals, but avoid high-fat meals since absorption of the drug may be decreased.1 14 46


The liquid-filled capsules and oral solution are not bioequivalent and are not interchangeable on a mg-per-mg basis.1 46


Oral solution should be used only when amprenavir capsules or other PIs cannot be used; switch patients from the oral solution as soon as they are able to take capsules.1 46


Dosage


Must be given in conjunction with other antiretrovirals.1 46 If used with ritonavir capsules, dosage adjustment recommended and additional drug interactions must be considered (see Specific Drugs under Interactions.).1 46


Pediatric Patients


Treatment of HIV Infection

Oral

















Pediatric Dosage for Treatment of HIV

Age and Weight (kg)



Dosage for Liquid-filled Capsules



Dosage for Oral Solution



4–12 years of age weighing <50 kg



20 mg/kg twice daily or 15 mg/kg 3 times daily (maximum 2.4 g daily)1 15



22.5 mg/kg (1.5 mL/kg) twice daily or 17 mg/kg (1.1 mL/kg) 3 times daily (maximum 2.8 g daily)15 46



13–16 years of age weighing <50 kg



20 mg/kg twice daily or 15 mg/kg 3 times daily (maximum 2.4 g daily)1 15



22.5 mg/kg (1.5 mL/kg) twice daily or 17 mg/kg (1.1 mL/kg) 3 times daily (maximum 2.8 g daily) 15 46



13–16 years of age weighing ≥50 kg



1.2 g twice daily1



1.4 g twice daily14 46



>16 years of age



1.2 g twice daily1



1.4 g twice daily46


Adults


Treatment of HIV Infection

Oral

Liquid-filled Capsules: 1.2 g twice daily.1 14


If used in conjunction with low-dose ritonavir, manufacturer recommends amprenavir 1.2 g once daily with ritonavir 200 mg once daily or amprenavir 600 mg twice daily with ritonavir 100 mg twice daily.1


Oral Solution: 1.4 g twice daily.14 46


Special Populations


Hepatic Impairment


Dosage recommendations not available for children with hepatic impairment since the drug has not been evaluated in these patients.1 46


Dosage adjustments necessary in adults with hepatic impairment based on Child-Pugh scores; oral solution contraindicated in those with hepatic failure.1 46 49


Liquid-filled Capsules: 450 mg twice daily in adults with Child-Pugh scores 5–8 and 300 mg twice daily in those with Child-Pugh scores 9–12.1 49


Oral Solution: 513 mg (34 mL) twice daily in adults with Child-Pugh scores 5–8 and 342 mg (23 mL) twice daily in those with Child-Pugh scores 9–12.46


Renal Impairment


Dosage adjustments not needed.1


Use oral solution with caution in patients with renal impairment;46 oral solution contraindicated in those with renal failure.46


Geriatric Patients


Cautious dosage selection; pharmacokinetics have not been studied in this age group.1 46


Cautions for Agenerase


Contraindications



  • Known hypersensitivity to amprenavir or any ingredient in the formulation.1 46




  • Use of oral solution in infants and children <4 years of age, pregnant women, patients with hepatic or renal failure, and patients receiving disulfiram or metronidazole due to the potential risk of propylene glycol-associated toxicity.1 46 (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)




  • Concomitant use with drugs highly dependent on CYP3A4 for metabolism and for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events (e.g., cisapride, ergot derivatives, pimozide, midazolam, triazolam).1 46 (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)




  • Concomitant use of ritonavir-boosted amprenavir with flecainide or propafenone.1 46 (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Interactions

Concomitant use with certain drugs is not recommended (e.g., rifampin, lovastatin, simvastatin, St. John’s wort, fluticasone) or requires particular caution (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil).1 (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)


Propylene Glycol-Associated Toxicity

Possible toxicity from the large amount of propylene glycol in the oral solution;46 only limited information available regarding chronic exposure to large amounts of propylene glycol.46


Infants and children <4 years of age, women, and certain ethnic populations (Asians, Native Alaskans, Native Americans) may be at increased risk.46 (See Contraindications under Cautions.)


Use oral solution only when amprenavir liquid-filled capsules and other PIs cannot be used.46 Switch to amprenavir capsules as soon as patient is able to take capsules.1 46


If oral solution is used, monitor for propylene glycol-associated adverse events (e.g., seizures, stupor, tachycardia, hyperosmolality, lactic acidosis, renal toxicity, hemolysis).46


Concomitant use of amprenavir oral solution and ritonavir oral solution not recommended because the large amount of propylene glycol in the amprenavir preparation and alcohol in the ritonavir preparation may compete for the same metabolic elimination pathway.46


If accidental overdosage of the oral solution occurs, consider the large amount of propylene glycol in the preparation.1 46 Monitor for toxicity and manage acid-base abnormalities;1 46 propylene glycol can be removed by hemodialysis.46


Hyperglycemic and Diabetogenic Effects

Hyperglycemia, new-onset diabetes mellitus, or exacerbation of preexisting diabetes mellitus reported with use of PIs; diabetic ketoacidosis has occurred.1 36 46


Monitor blood glucose and initiate or adjust dosage of insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents as needed.1 46


Dermatologic Reactions

Severe and life-threatening skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have occurred.1 46


Discontinue if severe or life-threatening rash or moderate rash accompanied by systemic symptoms occurs.1 46


Sensitivity Reactions


Sulfonamide Hypersensitivity

Because amprenavir is a sulfonamide derivative, use with caution in patients with known sulfonamide allergy.1 46


General Precautions


HIV Resistance

Possibility of HIV resistant to amprenavir and possible cross-resistance to other PIs.1 46 Effect of amprenavir therapy on subsequent therapy with other PIs unknown.1 46


Hemophilia A and B

Spontaneous bleeding reported with PIs;1 37 41 46 causal relationship not established.1 46


Use with caution in patients with a history of hemophilia type A or B.1 37 46 Increased hemostatic (e.g., antihemophilic factor) therapy may be needed.1 46


Immune Reconstitution Syndrome

During initial treatment, patients who respond to antiretroviral therapy may develop an inflammatory response to indolent or residual opportunistic infections (e.g., Mycobacterium avium complex [MAC], M. tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus [CMV], Pneumocystis jiroveci [formerly P. carinii]); this may necessitate further evaluation and treatment.1


Adipogenic Effects

Possible redistribution or accumulation of body fat, including central obesity, dorsocervical fat enlargement (buffalo hump), peripheral wasting, breast enlargement, and general cushingoid appearance.1 27 46


Lipid Effects

Increases in total serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations have occurred with amprenavir with or without ritonavir.1 46


Determine serum triglycerides and cholesterol concentrations prior to and periodically during therapy; manage lipid disorders as clinically appropriate.1 46 (See HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors under Interactions.)


Vitamin E Content

Each 50-mg amprenavir capsule contains 36 units and each mL of the oral solution contains 46 units of vitamin E.41 46 Vitamin E content of usual dosages of these formulations exceeds recommended daily intake.1 46


Supplemental vitamin E should not be taken during amprenavir therapy.1 46


The high vitamin E content of the capsules and oral solution may exacerbate vitamin K deficiency caused by anticoagulant therapy or malabsorption.1 46


Effects of long-term, high-dose vitamin E not well characterized and not specifically studied in HIV-infected individuals.1 46


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category C.1


Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry at 800-258-4263.1


The oral solution contraindicated during pregnancy because of potential risk to the fetus from the high propylene glycol content.1 46 58 Some experts state safety and pharmacokinetic data insufficient to recommend amprenavir liquid-filled capsules in pregnant women.58


Lactation

Distributed into milk in rats;1 46 not known whether distributed into human milk.1 46


Instruct HIV-infected women not to breast-feed because of risk of HIV transmission and risk of adverse effects in the infant.1 46


Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy not established in children <4 years of age.1 15 46


The oral solution contraindicated in infants and children <4 years of age because of potential risk of toxicity from the high propylene glycol content.1 46


Geriatric Use

Insufficient experience in those ≥65 years of age to determine whether they respond differently than younger adults.1 46


Select dosage with caution because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy.1 46


Hepatic Impairment

Clearance may be decreased;1 46 dosage adjustments necessary.1 46 49 (See Hepatic Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)


Use with caution; assess hepatic function prior to and periodically during therapy.1 46


Oral solution contraindicated in those with hepatic failure because of increased risk of propylene glycol-associated adverse events.1 46


Renal Impairment

Effects on amprenavir pharmacokinetics not studied.1 46


Because of increased risk of propylene glycol-associated adverse events, oral solution should be used with caution in those with renal impairment and is contraindicated in those with renal failure.46


Common Adverse Effects


Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain/discomfort, taste disorder, rash, paresthesia (oral/perioral).1 27 46


Interactions for Agenerase


Amprenavir is metabolized by CYP3A4 and also is an inhibitor of CYP3A4.1 46


Does not inhibit CYP2D6, 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, or P2E1.1 46


Drugs Affecting or Metabolized by Hepatic Microsomal Enzymes


Pharmacokinetic interactions likely with drugs that are inhibitors or substrates of CYP3A4 with possible alteration in metabolism of amprenavir and/or the other drug.1 4 46


Specific Drugs










































































































































Drug



Interaction



Comments



Abacavir



Possible increased amprenavir plasma concentrations and AUC;1 46 no effect on abacavir pharmacokinetics1 46


In vitro evidence of synergistic antiretroviral effects1 46



No dosage adjustments recommended41



Alcohol



Increased risk of propylene glycol-associated adverse effects in those receiving oral solution46



Alcoholic beverages should not be consumed while receiving amprenavir oral solution46



Antacids



Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations1 46



Take amprenavir at least 1 hour before or after antacids1 46



Antiarrhythmic agents (amiodarone, systemic lidocaine, quinidine)



Possible increased antiarrhythmic agent concentrations;1 46 potential for serious and/or life-threatening effects (e.g., cardiac arrhythmias) with certain agents1 46



Use concomitantly with caution; antiarrhythmic concentration monitoring recommended1 46



Anticoagulants, oral



Warfarin concentrations affected1 46


High vitamin E content of amprenavir preparations may exacerbate blood coagulation defect of vitamin K deficiency caused by anticoagulants1



Monitor INR1 46



Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin)



Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations;1 46 possible decreased effectiveness of the antiretroviral1 46



Use concomitantly with caution1 46



Antidepressants, tricyclics



Possible increased concentrations of tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline, imipramine) and potential for serious and/or life-threatening effects1 46



Monitor tricyclic antidepressant concentrations1 46



Antifungals, azoles (itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole)



Itraconazole or ketoconazole: Possible increased antifungal concentrations;1 46 possible effect on amprenavir pharmacokinetics1 46


Voriconazole: Possible inhibition of amprenavir metabolism and/or voriconazole metabolism68



Itraconazole or ketoconazole: Monitor for adverse effects of the antifungal;1 46 reduction in antifungal dosage may be needed in those receiving itraconazole or ketoconazole dosages >400 mg daily1 46


Voriconazole: Monitor for toxicities related to voriconazole and/or the PI68



Antimycobacterials, rifamycins (rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine)



Rifabutin: Decreased amprenavir concentrations; increased concentrations of rifabutin and rifabutin metabolite1 50 46


Rifampin: Decreased amprenavir concentrations;1 46 possible loss of virologic response and possible resistance to the antiretroviral1 46



Rifabutin: Reduce rifabutin dosage to ≥50% of usually recommended dosage; monitor for neutropenia by performing weekly CBC as clinically indicated1 46


Rifampin: Concomitant use contraindicated1 45 46 63


Rifapentine: Concomitant use not recommended14



Benzodiazepines



Possible increased concentrations of midazolam or triazolam; potential for serious and/or life-threatening effects (e.g., prolonged or increased sedation or respiratory depression)1 46


Possible increased concentrations of alprazolam, clorazepate, diazepam, flurazepam1 46



Concomitant use with midazolam or triazolam contraindicated1 46


Clinical importance of interaction with other benzodiazepines unknown; a decrease in benzodiazepine dosage may be needed1 46



Calcium-channel blocking agents (diltiazem, felodipine, nifedipine, nicardipine, nimodipine, verapamil, amlodipine, nisoldipine, isradipine)



Possible increased concentrations of calcium-channel blocking agent1 46



Use concomitantly with caution; clinical monitoring recommended1 46



Cisapride



Possible increased cisapride concentrations; potential for serious and/or life-threatening effects (e.g., cardiac arrhythmias)1 46



Concomitant use contraindicated1 14 46



Clarithromycin



Increased amprenavir concentrations and AUC;1 24 46 possible decreased clarithromycin concentrations and decreased 14-hydroxyclarithromycin concentrations and AUC24



No dosage adjustments recommended1 24 41



Corticosteroids (dexamethasone, fluticasone)



Fluticasone nasal spray/oral inhalation: Increased fluticasone concentrations with amprenavir (with or without low-dose ritonavir) resulting in decreased cortisol concentrations1 46


Dexamethasone: Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations; possible loss of virologic response1 46



Fluticasone nasal spray/oral inhalation: Consider alternative in patients receiving amprenavir (without ritonavir), especially when long-term corticosteroid therapy is anticipated; concomitant use with ritonavir-boosted amprenavir not recommended unless potential benefits outweigh risk of systemic corticosteroid adverse effects1 46


Dexamethasone: Use with caution1 46



Darunavir



Concomitant use of ritonavir-boosted darunavir and amprenavir not recommended pending further accumulation of data70



Delavirdine



Possible increased amprenavir concentrations and AUC1 46


Possible decreased delavirdine concentrations and AUC;1 46 possible loss of virologic response and possible resistance to delavirdine1 46



Should not be used concomitantly1 46



Didanosine



Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations with buffered didanosine preparations1 46


In vitro evidence of synergistic antiretroviral effects1 46



Administer amprenavir at least 1 hour before or after buffered didanosine (pediatric oral solution admixed with antacid)1 46



Disulfiram



Potential risk of toxicity if used concomitantly with amprenavir oral solution because of the large amount of propylene glycol in the solution1 46



Concomitant use of disulfiram and amprenavir oral solution contraindicated1 46



Efavirenz



Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations and AUC;1 43 46 possible increased efavirenz AUC43



Appropriate dosages for concomitant use with respect to safety and efficacy not established1 46



Emtricitabine



In vitro evidence of additive or synergistic antiretroviral effectsb



Ergot alkaloids (dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, ergotamine, methylergonovine)



Possible increased concentrations of ergot alkaloids and potential for serious and/or life-threatening effects such as ergot toxicity (peripheral vasospasm and ischemia of the extremities and other tissues)1 46



Concomitant use contraindicated1 14 46


If treatment of uterine atony and excessive postpartum bleeding is indicated in a woman receiving amprenavir, use methylergonovine maleate (Methergine) only if alternative treatments cannot be used and if potential benefits outweigh risks; use methylergonovine at lowest dosage and shortest duration possible58



Estrogens/Progestins



Hormonal contraceptives: Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations with ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone;1 46 possible loss of virologic response and possible resistance to the antiretroviral1 46



Hormonal contraceptives: Use alternative nonhormonal contraceptives1 46



Fosamprenavir



Possible increased toxicity14



Do not use concomitantly; fosamprenavir is a prodrug of amprenavir14



HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors



Possible decreased clearance and increased concentrations of some HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors with potential for increased risk of myopathy (including rhabdomyolysis)1 46



Concomitant use with lovastatin or simvastatin not recommended;1 46 caution if used with other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors1 46


If used with atorvastatin, use lowest possible initial atorvastatin dosage with careful monitoring1 46


Consider using HMG-COA reductase inhibitors with low potential for interaction (e.g., pravastatin, fluvastatin, rosuvastatin)1 46 59 60 69



Immunosuppressive agents (cyclosporine, sirolimus, tacrolimus)



Potential for increased concentrations of cyclosporine, sirolimus, or tacrolimus1 46



Monitor concentrations of the immunosuppressive agent1 46



Indinavir



Increased plasma concentrations and AUC of amprenavir; decreased plasma concentrations and AUC of indinavir1 46


In vitro evidence of additive antiretroviral effects1 46



Appropriate dosages for concomitant use with respect to safety and efficacy not established1 46



Lamivudine



No evidence of pharmacokinetic interaction1 46



No dosage adjustments recommended41



Lopinavir



Pharmacokinetic interaction may affect both drugs1 46 62



Once-daily lopinavir regimen not recommended with amprenavir62


For treatment-naive adults, manufacturer of lopinavir recommends 400 mg of lopinavir and 100 mg of ritonavir (2 tablets) twice daily; consider a dosage increase to 600 mg of lopinavir and 150 mg of ritonavir (3 tablets) twice daily for treatment-experienced adults when reduced susceptibility to lopinavir is suspected62


Manufacturer of lopinavir recommends that adults receive 533 mg of lopinavir and 133 mg of ritonavir (6.7 mL of the oral solution) twice daily62


For pediatric patients 6 months to 12 years of age, manufacturer of lopinavir recommends that those weighing 7 to <15 kg receive a dosage of 13 mg/kg of lopinavir and 3.25 mg/kg of ritonavir twice daily and those weighing 15–45 kg receive 11 mg/kg of lopinavir and 2.75 mg/kg of ritonavir twice daily; those weighing >45 kg should receive 533 mg of lopinavir and 133 mg of ritonavir (6.7 mL oral solution) twice daily or 400 mg of lopinavir and 100 mg of ritonavir (2 tablets) twice daily62


Pediatric patients ≥12 years of age may receive recommended adult dosage62



Methadone



Decreased amprenavir concentrations and AUC; possible decreased effectiveness of the antiretroviral1 46


Decreased methadone concentrations1 46



Consider alternative antiretroviral agents1 46


If used with amprenavir, monitor and consider possible need to increase methadone dosage1 46



Metronidazole



Potential risk of toxicity if used concomitantly with amprenavir oral solution because of the large amount of propylene glycol in the solution 46



Concomitant use contraindicated46



Nelfinavir



Increased plasma concentrations and AUC of amprenavir1 46


In vitro evidence of additive antiretroviral effects1 46



Appropriate dosages for concomitant use with respect to safety and efficacy not established1 46



Nevirapine



Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations1 46



Appropriate dosages for concomitant use with respect to safety and efficacy not established1 46



Pimozide



Possible increased pimozide concentrations;1 46 potential for serious and/or life-threatening effects (e.g., cardiac arrhythmias)1 46



Concomitant use contraindicated1 14 46



Ritonavir



Increased amprenavir plasma concentrations and AUC;1 46 concomitant low-dose ritonavir used to therapeutic advantage (ritonavir-boosted amprenavir1


Potential for the large amount of propylene glycol in amprenavir oral solution and alcohol in ritonavir oral solution to compete for the same metabolic elimination pathway46


In vitro evidence of additive antiretroviral effects1 46



Reduce amprenavir dosage when used concomitantly with ritonavir; if amprenavir capsules used in adults, use amprenavir 1.2 g once daily with ritonavir 200 mg once daily or amprenavir 600 mg twice daily with ritonavir 100 mg twice daily1 46


Appropriate pediatric dosage of amprenavir capsules used concomitantly with ritonavir not established1


Concomitant use of amprenavir oral solution and ritonavir oral solution not recommended46


If ritonavir and amprenavir used concomitantly, concomitant use of flecainide or propafenone contraindicated1 46



St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum)



Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations;1 46 54 55 possible loss of virologic response and possible resistance to the antiretroviral1 46 54 55



Concomitant use not recommended1 14 46 54 55



Saquinavir



Decreased amprenavir concentrations1 46


In vitro evidence of synergistic antiretroviral effects1 46



Appropriate dosages for concomitant use with respect to safety and efficacy not established1 46



Sildenafil



Increased sildenafil concentrations; increased risk of sildenafil-associated adverse effects1 46



Use caution and reduced sildenafil dosage (do not exceed 25 mg every 48 hours); monitor closely for adverse effects (e.g., hypotension, syncope, visual changes, prolonged erection)1 46



Tadalafil



Increased tadalafil concentrations; increased risk of tadalafil-associated adverse effects66



Use initial tadalafil dosage of 5 mg and do not exceed a single dose of 10 mg in 72 hours66



Tenofovir



In vitro evidence of additive or synergistic antiretroviral effectsc



Tipranavir



Possible decreased amprenavir concentrations with ritonavir-boosted tipranavir67



Concomitant use not recommended67



Trazodone



Possible increased trazodone concentrations1 46



Use with caution; consider decreased trazodone dosage1 46



Vardenafil



Possible increased vardenafil concentrations and possible increase in vardenafil-associated adverse effects65



Use initial vardenafil dosage of 2.5 mg and do not exceed a single dose of 2.5 mg in 24 hours65



Vitamin E



Possible excessive vitamin E dosage because of high vitamin E content of amprenavir preparations1 46


High vitamin E doses may exacerbate blood coagulation defect of vitamin K deficiency caused by anticoagulant therapy or malabsorption1



Supplemental vitamin E not recommended1 46



Zidovudine



Possible increased amprenavir AUC;1 46 possible increased zidovudine concentrations and AUC1 46


In vitro evidence of synergistic antiretroviral effects1 46



No dosage adjustments recommended41


Agenerase Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Bioavailability


Absolute oral bioavailability has not been established.1 46


Amprenavir not appreciably absorbed from GI tract when given alone;40 41 amprenavir formulated with vitamin E rapidly absorbed following oral administration.1 48


Peak amprenavir plasma concentrations attained 1–2 hours after oral administration of capsules or oral solution formulated with vitamin E.1 48 46


Amprenavir liquid-filled capsules and oral solution not bioequivalent; oral solution about 14% less bioavailable compared with capsules.1 46


Food


Oral bioavailability of amprenavir may be decreased if administered with a high-fat meal.1 46


Distribution


Extent


Animal studies indicate distribution into various tissues.2


CSF concentrations <1% of plasma concentrations.41


Amprenavir crosses the placenta and is distributed into milk in animals.41 Not known whether drug crosses human placenta or is distributed into human milk.14


Plasma Protein Binding


90% bound to plasma or serum proteins, principally to α1-acid glycoprotein.1 23 46


Elimination


Metabolism


Metabolized in liver principally by CYP3A4.1 4 46


Elimination Route


About 14% of an oral dose excreted in urine and 75% eliminated in feces.1 41 46 Only minimal amounts eliminated unchanged in urine or feces.1 46


Half-life


7.1–10.6 hours in HIV-infected adults with normal renal and hepatic function.1 2 41 46 48


Special Populations


Peak plasma concentrations and AUC may be increased in patients with hepatic impairment.1 46 49


Pharmacokinetics not studied to date in patients with renal impairment; decreased clearance not expected.1 46


Stability


Storage


Oral


Liquid-filled Capsules

25°C.1


Solution

25°C.46


Actions and SpectrumActions



  • Pharmacologically related to, but structurally different from, other PIs (e.g., atazanavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir) and other currently available antiretrovirals.11 21




  • Active against HIV-1 and, to a lesser extent, HIV-2.1 7 11 46




  • Inhibits replication of HIV-1 and HIV-2 by interfering with HIV protease.1 7 11 46




  • HIV-1 with reduced susceptibility to amprenavir have been selected in vitro and have emerged during therapy with the drug.1 2 5 6 7 8 19 20 46




  • Varying degrees of cross-resistance occur among PIs; only limited data available to date regarding cross-resistance between amprenavir and other PIs.1