Greater Glasgow and Clyde Medicines
Key to symbols The medicine should be initiated by, or on the advice of a specialist, but is suitable for continuation by a GP The medicine should only be used and prescribed by a specialist Indicates the preferred choice within a class or group of medicines
The medicine should be initiated by, or on the advice of a specialist, but is suitable for continuation by a GP
The medicine should only be used and prescribed by a specialist
Indicates the preferred choice within a class or group of medicines
5.1.1. Penicillins

5.1.1.3. Broad-spectrum penicillins

Preferred List
AMOXICILLIN

Prescribing Notes:

Broad spectrum penicillin with a wide range of indications including chest infections, otitis media, urinary tract infections and prophylaxis of endocarditis.

BNF Link

CO-AMOXICLAV

Restrictions:

Excludes Augmentin Duo®. Inappropriate use of co-amoxiclav is associated with an increased risk of infections such as Clostridium difficile and MRSA. The risk of cholestatic jaundice with co-amoxiclav is six times that seen with amoxicillin and is more common in men and the over 65s. Therefore, co-amoxiclav should be reserved for infections suspected of being due to amoxicillin resistant beta-lactamase producing strains.

Prescribing Notes:

Duration of therapy should not normally exceed 14 days. See Primary Care and Acute infection guidelines for appropriate uses in adults. Co-amoxiclav is a mixture of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. Care should be taken as to which product should be used in paediatric patients due to the different amounts of clavulanic acid. Consult the BNF for Children for details.

BNF Link