Can You Take Advil With Augmentin?

In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses whether or not you can safely combine Advil and Augmentin.

Question

Can I take Advil with Amox/Clav?

Asked by Jody On Jan 22, 2023

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Jan 30, 2023
Last updated Apr 19, 2024

Key points

  • There is no known interaction between Augmentin (amoxicillin; clavulanic acid) and Advil (ibuprofen).

Answer

Yes, it is safe to combine Advil (ibuprofen) and Augmentin (amoxicillin; clavulanic acid) as there is no known interaction between the two.

We answered a similar question not too long ago, where someone asked if Advil was safe to take with amoxicillin (which is one component of the drug you asked about). Advil is alone safe with amoxicillin alone (i.e., not combined with clavulanic acid).

Augmentin Vs. Amoxicillin

The only difference between your question and the one we answered before is that we are talking now about Augmentin, which is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid.

Amoxicillin is an aminopenicillin, which works to eradicate bacteria by targeting the bacterial cell wall. The cell wall is made up of a complex structure of molecules, including a substance called peptidoglycan. Amoxicillin interferes with the formation of this peptidoglycan, causing the cell wall to weaken and eventually break down.

One of the resistance mechanisms of some bacteria is the production of beta-lactamase, an enzyme that destroys certain antibiotics (such as amoxicillin).

Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor. In combination with antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clavulanic acid works by blocking the action beta-lactamase, which helps antibiotics maintain their potency, allowing them to effectively target and kill the bacteria.

Pain Medications With Augmentin

Like with amoxicillin, Advil is safe with Augmentin. In fact, most pain relievers are safe to take with Augmentin. This also includes Aleve (naproxen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen).

Final Words

Thank you for reaching out to us! I hope this helps.

References

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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