Exact Answer: After about 72 hours
Augmentin is an antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin group of antibiotics. It is prescribed to treat bacterial infections. Augmentin is composed of two different drugs i.e. amoxicillin along with clavulanic acid. Most antibiotics contain augmentin as their chief component. However, the amalgamation of Augmentin with clavulanic acid has been proven more effective in treating infections. The bacterial infections which can be treated by Augmentin include infection in ears, skin, sinuses, urinary tract, etc.
Apart from these above-mentioned infections, sometimes it is also used to treat pneumonia. The medication is available in various forms which should be consumed orally.
How Long After Augmentin Can You Drink?
| Amount of Intake | Time |
| Low | 72 hours |
| High | Should be avoided |
Although various modes of the medication are present, they differ via the time of showing effect. The tablets are available either as extended-release ones or as immediate-release ones. The liquid form of the medication in the form of suspension is even available. It is mainly available in the market as its generic name is comparatively less expensive than the brand name product.
The dosage and strength of the medication should be prescribed by the doctor. The most common factors which determine the dosage to be prescribed are the severity of the health condition, age of the patient and the form of medication to be taken. The existing health issues and the history of health issues of the patient may even play a significant role in deciding the dosage of the patient. The type of disease and the severity of the condition would be assessed by the doctor before the prescription of the dosage.
Sometimes, the intake of this medication may lead to side effects. The possible side effects include diarrhea, vaginitis, nausea, vomiting, rashes in the skin. These side effects fade away within a few weeks or days. However, if they persist longer than two weeks, it is best to consult the doctor. These are the minor side effects. However, sometimes the side effects may be major thereby leading to chronic health issues like problems in the liver, and kidney leading to their failure.
It is advised to avoid alcohol during the prescription and intake of antibiotics. However, if you really want to take alcohol after the intake of antibiotics, then it is advised to maintain a minimum time gap of 72 hours. This is because alcohol may react with the medication thereby leading to side effects.
Why Should You Wait So Long To Drink After Augmentin?
Alcohol interferes with the effectiveness of Augmentin thereby defeating the purpose of intake of medication. Some people feel dizziness and other stomach issues due to the intake of antibiotics. If alcohol is taken along with the medication or immediately after the intake of medication, then there are higher chances of an increase in these stomach issues. Sleeping and hydration are the most essential keys to successful recovery from any kind of infection caused by bacteria. However, alcohol interferes with both of these keys thereby delaying the process of recovery.
Intake of alcohol along with Augmentin can lead to a feeling of nausea and other such symptoms. Vomiting, sweating, fever, sudden rise in blood pressure, seizure, coma, memory loss, confusion, cramps in abdomen, headache, flushing are the most possible side effects which may be noticed if alcohol is taken along with Augmentin. They not only affect an individual’s physical health but also mental health. Therefore, it is advised to maintain the prescribed time gap. It is safest to avoid the consumption of alcohol while taking antibiotics.
Sometimes, alcohol may react negatively thereby slowing down the immune responses of the body. As a result, the body takes comparatively more time to heal and recover from any kind of injuries, infections, etc. If Augmentin is prescribed to treat any kind of infection, then the body’s healing process may be delayed on intake of alcohol. However, no such side effects have been noticed generally. But, there may be some rare cases where the reactions may take place leading to unwanted consequences.
Apart from alcohol, Augmentin should not be consumed along with other drugs. Intake of Augmentin along with any kind of anticoagulant drugs may lead to an increased amount of blood loss during injuries. Intake of Augmentin along with Allopurinol may lead to rashes and other such skin infections. Intake of Augmentin along with any kind of oral contraceptives may reduce their effectiveness.
Conclusion
Alcohol should be avoided. It causes many health issues like cancer, liver cirrhosis. Not just this, many people die due to complications of alcohol along with other medicines. Sometimes, alcohol even leads to withdrawal symptoms. Hence, it’s advised to stop the intake of alcohol. Consumption of alcohol should be completely avoided during intake of any kind of medication. If you still wish to take alcohol along with the medication, then it is best to consult the doctor.
Apart from all these, the instructions present on the label or bottle of the medication should be clearly read and followed. In case you still face any kind of difficulty in comprehending it, then consult the doctor regarding this.