Clavuclav Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Mechanism of Action: Co-Amoxiclav is a novel concept in antibiotic therapy. Resistance to many antibiotics is caused by bacterial enzymes which destroy the antibiotic before it can act on the pathogen. The Clavulanate anticipates this defense mechanism by blocking the β-lactamase enzymes, thus rendering the organisms sensitive to Amoxicillin's rapid bactericidal effect of concentrations readily attainable in the body. Clavulanate by itself has little antibacterial activity; however, in association with Amoxicillin, it produces a novel antibiotic agent of broad spectrum with wide application in hospital and general practice.
Pharmacokinetics: The pharmacokinetics of the two components of Co-Amoxiclav are closely matched. Peak serum levels of both occur about 1 hour after oral administration. Absorption of Co-Amoxiclav is optimized at the start of a meal. Doubling the dosage of Co-Amoxiclav approximately doubles the serum levels achieved. Both Clavulanate and Amoxicillin have low levels of serum binding; about 70% remains free in the serum.