What it does
Lavulanic is a medicine that helps fight infections caused by certain bacteria.
Commonly used for: bacterial infections, respiratory infections, skin infections
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:42:17 · updated 2026-07-26 13:51:55
About this medicine
Lavulanic is a medicine that helps fight infections caused by certain bacteria.
What it treats
- bacterial infections
- respiratory infections
- skin infections
How it works
It works by stopping the growth of bacteria, helping your body to fight the infection.
Who it's for
It is for people who have bacterial infections that need treatment.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: lavulanic
Lavulanic acid, also known as clavulanic acid, is a β-lactam antibiotic that is primarily used in conjunction with penicillin antibiotics to inhibit the action of β-lactamase enzymes produced by certain bacteria. This action enhances the efficacy of penicillins against resistant bacterial strains.
Indications
- Bacterial infections caused by β-lactamase producing organisms
- Sinusitis
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing information.
Adults: Refer to specific guidelines or BNF for exact dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Lavulanic acid acts as a β-lactamase inhibitor. It binds to the active site of β-lactamase enzymes, which are produced by some bacteria to confer resistance against β-lactam antibiotics. By inhibiting these enzymes, lavulanic acid protects the β-lactam ring of co-administered antibiotics (such as amoxicillin), allowing them to exert their antibacterial effects.
Pharmacodynamics
Lavulanic acid has no significant intrinsic antibacterial activity but enhances the activity of penicillin antibiotics by preventing the hydrolysis of the β-lactam ring by bacterial β-lactamases. This synergistic effect allows for a broader spectrum of activity against β-lactamase-producing bacteria, which are often responsible for treatment failures with standard penicillins.
Pharmacokinetics
Lavulanic acid is absorbed orally and achieves peak plasma concentrations within 1 to 2 hours. It is widely distributed throughout the body and is metabolized in the liver. The elimination half-life is approximately 1 hour, and it is primarily excreted in the urine, with a portion eliminated unchanged and as metabolites.
Pregnancy
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether lavulanic is excreted in human milk. Use caution when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.