Fleming: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety Information.

Fleming is a prescription antibiotic that combines two active ingredients to fight bacterial infections amoxicillin, a widely used penicillin-type antibiotic, and clavulanic acid, which helps prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to treatment.

Fleming is available in both 625 mg and 1000 mg strengths.

This article will guide you through what the medicine is, how to use it, safety precautions, and possible side effects.

What Fleming Tablet Used For?

Fleming is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria causing infections. It contains two medicines:

Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is a β‑lactam antibiotic (similar to penicillin) that binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) on bacterial cell walls. PBPs are enzymes (transpeptidases) responsible for cross-linking peptidoglycan chains, which provide structural integrity to bacteria.

By binding and inactivating these enzymes, amoxicillin inhibits final-stage cell wall synthesis, leading to a weakened wall and subsequent bacterial lysis (cell death).

Clavulanic acid

Clavulanic acid is a β‑lactamase inhibitor, but has minimal antibacterial activity on its own. Many bacteria produce β‑lactamase enzymes that destroy the β‑lactam ring of antibiotics like amoxicillin, rendering them ineffective.

Clavulanic acid binds to and irreversibly inhibits these β‑lactamases, thereby protecting amoxicillin from degradation and restoring its antibacterial action.

Synergistic effect

The combination of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid results in a broader spectrum antibiotic, effective against:

• Β‑lactamase–producing Gram‑positive bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus).
• Gram‑negative bacteria (e.g., Haemophilus influenzae, E. Coli, Klebsiella).
• Anaerobic bacteria (e.g., Bacteroides species).

What Infections Does Fleming Treat?

Doctors may prescribe Fleming for:

• Middle ear and sinus infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections, including dental infections
• Bone and joint infections
• Urinary tract infections

What you need to know before you take Fleming

Before taking Fleming some important safety information should be kept in place. This includes who should avoid it, conditions to be aware of, and interactions with other medicines.

Do not take Fleming if you

• Are allergic to amoxicillin, clavulanic acid, penicillin, or any other ingredient in the medicine
• Have ever had a severe allergic reaction to another antibiotic
• Have experienced liver problems or jaundice during antibiotic treatment

Talk to Your Doctor Before Taking Fleming If You

• Have glandular fever
• Are being treated for liver or kidney problems
• Have difficulty passing urine

Your doctor may also recommend tests to confirm the type of bacteria causing your infection and adjust your treatment if needed

Other important precautions

• Fleming can worsen certain health conditions or cause serious side effects such as allergic reactions, seizures, or inflammation of the large intestine.
• It can affect some blood and urine test results, so always tell your healthcare provider that you’re taking it.
• Certain medicines such as gout treatments, blood thinners, methotrexate, or transplant rejection drugs may interact with Flemin
• If you are scheduled for blood tests (e.g., liver function, red blood cell count) or urine tests (e.g., glucose levels), inform the medical staff that you are taking Fleming, as it may influence test results



Taking Other Medicines

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any medicines you are currently using, have recently used, or may start using.

• Allopurinol (for gout): May increase the likelihood of allergic skin reactions.


• Probenecid (for gout): Your doctor may need to adjust your Fleming dosage.


• Blood-thinning medicines (e.g., Warfarin): Additional blood tests may be necessary.


• Driving and Using Machines: Some side effects of Fleming can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities if you feel unwell.


• Propylene Glycol Content: Each tablet contains 4 mg of propylene glycol.


• Mycophenolate Mofetil (for organ transplant rejection prevention): Fleming may reduce its effectiveness.


• Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Fertility: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you might be pregnant, or plan to conceive, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Fleming.


• Methotrexate (for cancer or autoimmune diseases): Fleming may alter its effects.



Common Side Effects of Fleming

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Rash or itching
• Vaginal thrush or discharge
• Diaper rash in children



Serious Reactions to Watch For

Stop the drug and seek medical attention if you experience:


• Hives, difficulty breathing, facial or throat swelling


• Painful red or purple rash, blistering, peeling skin


• Fever with sore throat or burning eyes


• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)


• Unusual bleeding or bruising


• Muscle aches or severe weakness


• Persistent or bloody diarrhoea (may indicate C. difficile infection)





How to take Fleming

Knowing the correct way to take Fleming ensures that the antibiotic works effectively and reduces the risk of resistance or side effects. Unless otherwise prescribed by your Doctor

• Adults and children over 40 kg: Fleming 625mg or 1000mg is taken 1 tablet 12 hourly (twice a day)


• Children under 40 kg: May need a suspension. Tablets are not suitable for those under 25 kg.


• Kidney or liver problems: Dose may need adjustment; more frequent monitoring may be required.



Tips for taking Fleming

• Follow your doctor’s prescription exactly.


• Take at the start of a meal to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.



Tablets

• Swallow extended-release tablets whole, or break them in half if needed. Do not crush or chew.


• Let your doctor know if you have trouble swallowing pills.



Oral suspension

• Shake well


• Use a measuring syringe or cap and not a kitchen spoon.



During Treatment

• Complete the full course, even if you feel better early. Stopping too soon may cause the infection to return or become resistant.





Missed Dose: What to Do

• Take it as soon as you remember.


• If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and don't double up.


• Doubling doses can increase the risk of side effects without improving treatment.



How to Store Fleming

• Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.


• Do not use Fleming after the expiry date shown on the packaging. The date refers to the last day of the stated month.


• Store at a temperature below 25°C.


• Keep the tablets in their original packaging to protect them from moisture.


• Do not use tablets that are broken, chipped, or damaged.


• Do not dispose of unused medicines in household waste or down the drain. Ask your pharmacist about safe disposal methods to help protect the environment.



Frequently Asked Questions About Fleming Antibiotics

How much is Fleming 625 in Nigeria?

Prices vary across pharmacies but ranges between 4500-₦6,750.

Who should not take Fleming?

Anyone allergic to penicillins (like amoxicillin or clavulanic acid), or those with severe liver or kidney issues or a history of jaundice from this medicine, should avoid using Fleming.

How often should I take Fleming 625 mg?

It's typically taken every 12 hours,for 7days or as directed by your physician.

Is Fleming the same as Augmentin?

Yes—Fleming is a generic form of the same combination antibiotic (amoxicillin with clavulanic acid) found in Augmentin.

Can antibiotics cause yeast infections?

Yes, antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the body, sometimes leading to yeast infections, especially in women. This is because antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria that normally keep yeast growth in check.

Allergic to Fleming? Which antibiotics can you take?

If you are allergic to penicillin, doctors may prescribe antibiotics from other classes such as cephalosporins (if the allergy is mild), clindamycin, or macrolides. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any allergies before starting treatment.

Can Fleming cause diarrhea?

Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is common because antibiotics can disrupt the gut’s natural bacterial balance. This can range from mild to severe and sometimes may indicate an overgrowth of harmful bacteria like Clostridioides difficile. Contact your doctor if diarrhea is severe or persistent.

Can Fleming cause constipation?

While less common than diarrhea, some people may experience constipation when taking antibiotics. This can be due to changes in gut bacteria or side effects of the medication. Staying hydrated and eating fiber-rich foods may help.

Disclaimer: While we strive to keep this information accurate and current, it may not reflect the most recent research or guidance. This content is for general educational use and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It does not cover all possible uses, interactions, or side effects. The absence of a warning does not mean a medicine is safe or appropriate for you. Always consult your Doctor, Pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific needs.