Augmentin for Oxacillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus Wound Infections

First-Line Agents and Alternatives

The Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends anti-staphylococcal penicillins (dicloxacillin, cloxacillin, oxacillin) or first-generation cephalosporins (cephalexin, cefazolin) as first-line agents for oxacillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) wound infections, providing more targeted coverage 1, 3
Amoxicillin-clavulanate is explicitly listed as an acceptable alternative for impetigo and minor skin infections, alongside dicloxacillin and cephalexin, according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America 3, 1
For diabetic foot infections with mild to moderate severity, amoxicillin-clavulanate is listed as an appropriate option by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 4, 5
Amoxicillin-clavulanate is the preferred oral agent for animal and human bite wounds, as recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 3, 5

Augmentin is particularly appropriate when first-line agents are contraindicated (e.g., penicillin allergy that is not anaphylactic), as stated by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1
Broader coverage is desired for polymicrobial wound infections, and amoxicillin-clavulanate is a suitable option, according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America 3, 5
Patient convenience requires a single agent rather than combination therapy, making amoxicillin-clavulanate a viable choice, as noted by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 6

For uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections, treatment with amoxicillin-clavulanate should last 5-10 days based on clinical response, as recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 7, 8, 6
Ensure true oxacillin susceptibility through proper culture and sensitivity testing before relying on Augmentin, as emphasized by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1, 8
If MRSA is suspected or confirmed, Augmentin is ineffective, and alternative agents like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, doxycycline, clindamycin, or vancomycin should be used instead, according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America 7, 1, 2
Surgical drainage remains critical for purulent infections and should be performed whenever feasible, as recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1, 8, 2