Klavulánsav

Klavulánsav is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of beta-lactamase inhibitors. It is derived from Streptomyces clavuligerus, a bacterium. Klavulánsav itself possesses weak antibacterial activity. However, its primary significance lies in its ability to protect other beta-lactam antibiotics from degradation by bacterial enzymes called beta-lactamases. These enzymes are produced by many bacteria and can render beta-lactam antibiotics ineffective. By binding to and inactivating beta-lactamases, klavulánsav restores the antibacterial efficacy of co-administered beta-lactam antibiotics against bacteria that would otherwise be resistant.

It is commonly formulated in combination with amoxicillin, forming amoxicillin-klavulánsav. This combination is widely used to treat a broad spectrum of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and bone and joint infections. Other beta-lactam antibiotics are also combined with klavulánsav. The mechanism of action involves klavulánsav irreversibly binding to the active site of beta-lactamase enzymes, acting as a suicide inhibitor. This prevents the enzyme from hydrolyzing the beta-lactam ring of the antibiotic, thus allowing the antibiotic to exert its own antibacterial effect. Side effects associated with klavulánsav are typically those of the co-administered antibiotic and may include gastrointestinal disturbances.