Augmentin® for UTIs

Written By: Gillian Singer, MPH

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect millions yearly, causing discomfort and inconvenience. While antibiotics are the standard treatment, finding and getting a prescription for the right one is crucial for an effective and complete recovery. Augmentin® (a combination of amoxicillin-clavulanate) is a commonly prescribed antibiotic with targeted action against UTI-causing bacteria.

Continue reading to learn more about UTIs, how Augmentin® works, and other important information to know about this effective treatment.

UTI Treatment

When it comes to treating UTIs, antibiotics are usually the default solution. The specific medication and treatment plan will depend on your overall health and the type of bacteria causing the infection.

Frequently prescribed medications include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim®), fosfomycin (Monurol®), nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin®, Macrobid®), cephalexin, and ceftriaxone. Another course of treatment that includes amoxicillin is Augmentin®.

How Augmentin® Works for UTIs

Augmentin® has approved indications to treat lower respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and acute ear infections. Augmentin® (amoxicillin-clavulanate) is a commonly prescribed antibiotic with targeted action against UTI-causing bacteria.

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that kills bacteria by targeting their cell walls. It binds to a protein called penicillin-binding protein (PBP), which bacteria need to build their outer layer. Without this outer layer, the bacteria can’t survive. The problem is that some bacteria fight back by producing an enzyme called beta-lactamase, which makes them resistant to antibiotics like amoxicillin. That’s where clavulanic acid comes in. It doesn’t kill bacteria on its own but works as a beta-lactamase inhibitor. By blocking this enzyme, clavulanic acid helps amoxicillin stay effective and target more resistant bacteria.

So, the two ingredients in Augmentin® work together as a powerful treatment for infections that amoxicillin alone might not handle. It’s especially effective against the resistant bacterial strain E. coli, a leading cause of UTIs.[2]

Augmentin® Dosage for UTIs

Augmentin® comes in the form of chewable tablets, powder for suspension, and extended-release tablets, and in the US, other brand names include Amoclan®, Augmentin® ES-600, and Augmentin® XR. The right dose of this medicine varies from person to person based on a variety of factors, so it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the directions on the label. The guidelines given below by the Mayo Clinic give an idea of the typical doses, but if your healthcare provider prescribes something different, don’t change it unless they tell you to.[2]

The right dose of this medicine can vary from person to person, so it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions or the directions on the label. The guidelines below give an idea of the typical doses, but if your healthcare provider prescribes something different, don’t change it unless they tell you to.[2]

• Chewable Tablets or Suspension:
  • Adults and kids 40 kg (88 lb) or more: 125–250 mg of amoxicillin with 31.25–62.5 mg clavulanate every 8 hours.
  • Kids 3 months or older and under 40 kg (88 lb): The dose is based on weight. Usually, it’s 20 mg per kg daily (divided every 8 hours) or 25 mg per kg daily (divided every 12 hours).
  • Kids younger than 3 months: The dose is based on weight and typically 30 mg per kg daily, divided every 12 hours.
• Extended-Release Tablets:
  • Adults and kids 40 kg or more: 1000 mg amoxicillin with 62.5 mg clavulanate every 12 hours for 10 days.
  • Kids under 40 kg: The dose must be set by the healthcare provider.
• Tablets:
  • Adults and kids 40 kg or more: 250 mg every 8 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours.
  • Kids under 40 kg: Healthcare provider’s guidance is needed.

Side Effects of Augmentin®

While Augmentin® is generally well tolerated, some patients may experience nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. Less common and serious side effects can include allergic reactions, hives, genital itching, pain during intercourse, vaginal discharge, and severe diarrhea. If you have any side effects that are persistent or concerning, you should notify your healthcare provider as soon as possible and they can provide you with guidance on next steps for your treatment.[2]

What Causes UTIs?

There are several causes of UTIs, but they ultimately occur when bacteria end up in the urinary tract. These bacteria are often Escherichia coli (E. coli) which come from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Sexual activity can lead to a bladder infection, but UTIs are not strictly sexually transmitted. That said, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and mycoplasma can cause UTIs. Bacteria can also make their way into your urinary tract from the anus due to proximity, but that’s not always the case.[1]

Because people assigned female at birth are more likely to get UTIs (since those AFAB’s urethras are shorter), other risk factors for UTIs include certain types of birth control (diaphragms and spermicides) and menopause. Risk factors independent of assigned sex at birth include urinary tract problems, suppressed immune systems, catheter use, or a recent procedure in the urinary tract.[1]

Treatment and Testing with Everlywell

You can get treatment for bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, UTIs, and other sexual health conditions with Everlywell. Everlywell is the perfect way to receive vaginal health care and STI testing online and from the comfort of your home. You can get same-day prescription treatment for UTIs and the other conditions listed above. Get treatment without an appointment by board-certified healthcare providers and have your prescription sent right to your local pharmacy. Everlywell healthcare providers, when appropriate, can prescribe Cipro, Cephalexin, Cefdinir, Monurol®, Bactrim®, Macrobid®, or Augmentin®.

The first step is to submit your request and fill out a health profile with your medical information and symptoms. Second, a healthcare provider will review your information and provide a clinical evaluation. Then, a provider will send your prescription to your pharmacy of choice the same day if it is part of your treatment plan. Then, you will be provided with continued support on your treatment journey.

In addition to treatment for BV, you can also test for sexually transmitted infections from the comfort of your own home.

Augmentin® is a reliable option for treating UTIs, particularly when resistance to other antibiotics is suspected. By understanding its mechanism, following proper dosage instructions, and being aware of potential side effects, patients can ensure safe and effective treatment. For more insights on UTI care, visit Everlywell’s resources on treatment options and medications.

1. Mayo Clinic. Urinary tract infection (UTI). Published September 14, 2022. Accessed January 8, 2025. Medical Citation URL.
2. Mayo Clinic. Amoxicillin and clavulanate (oral route). Last updated May 31, 2024. Accessed January 8, 2025. Medical Citation URL.