A Clinical Evaluation of Clavulanate-Potentiated Amoxycillin in the Management of Moderate to Severe Respiratory Tract Infections

This study investigated the effects of clavulanate-potentiated amoxycillin in the management of moderate to severe respiratory tract infections. A total of 34 patients aged 10–70 years were studied to establish the clinical and bacterial efficacy of treatment and screened for unwanted effects and abnormal laboratory findings. Clavulanate-potentiated amoxycillin was given in dosages of 375 or 750 mg twice daily, orally, for a mean of 13 days (range 3–30 days). Patients were assessed at the end of 2 weeks and again on discharge from hospital (if later) for up to 6 months. Overall diminution in the number of symptoms was recorded at the end of the study; 78% of symptoms had disappeared after 2 weeks. The treatment proved highly effective in controlling respiratory tract infections in 94% of patients. The necessity for multiple drug therapy and parenteral administration was also avoided.