POTASSIUM CLAVULANATE Meaning and
Definition
-
Potassium clavulanate is a compound that is classified as a beta-lactamase inhibitor. It is most commonly used as an antibiotic medication in combination with other drugs, such as amoxicillin, to treat various bacterial infections. Potassium clavulanate works by preventing the breakdown of the antibiotic by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by certain bacteria, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the antibiotic against those organisms.
As a beta-lactamase inhibitor, potassium clavulanate is a potent drug that helps to combat drug resistance in bacteria. It acts by irreversibly binding to beta-lactamase enzymes, inhibiting their ability to degrade beta-lactam antibiotics like amoxicillin. This inhibition allows the antibiotic to remain effective against bacteria that would normally be resistant to its action.
Potassium clavulanate is available in tablet, powder, or oral suspension form for oral administration. The dosage and duration of treatment with this medication may vary depending on the specific infection being treated and the patient's medical condition. It is important to follow the prescribed dosing instructions provided by a healthcare professional to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.
While generally well-tolerated, potassium clavulanate may cause certain side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, or hypersensitivity reactions. It is essential to inform a healthcare provider about any preexisting medical conditions or ongoing medications to avoid potential drug interactions or adverse effects.
Common Misspellings for POTASSIUM CLAVULANATE
- ootassium clavulanate
- lotassium clavulanate
- -otassium clavulanate
- 0otassium clavulanate
- pitassium clavulanate
- pktassium clavulanate
- pltassium clavulanate
- pptassium clavulanate
- p0tassium clavulanate
- p9tassium clavulanate
- porassium clavulanate
- pofassium clavulanate
- pogassium clavulanate
- poyassium clavulanate
- po6assium clavulanate
- po5assium clavulanate
- potzssium clavulanate
- potsssium clavulanate
- potwssium clavulanate
- potqssium clavulanate
Etymology of POTASSIUM CLAVULANATE
The word "Potassium Clavulanate" has a straightforward etymology based on its chemical composition.
"Potassium" refers to the element potassium, which is a metallic element represented by the symbol "K" on the periodic table. The word "potassium" originates from the English word "potash" and the Arabic word "qalīy" or "qālī", which means "alkaline ashes". Potassium was first isolated in 1807 by Sir Humphry Davy, who extracted it from potash.
"Clavulanate" refers to clavulanic acid, a beta-lactamase inhibitor that is combined with certain antibiotics to extend their spectrum of activity. The term "clavulanic acid" comes from the genus name of the bacteria Streptomyces clavuligerus, which was the original source of this compound.
