Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am working on an experiment that includes determining whether bacteriophage or antibiotics are more effective on killing bacteria, more specifically E. Coli. In my experiment I decided to use two different antibiotics, amoxicillin and Ciprofloxacin. I have entered my project into the science fair, the only problem is that I can't purchase amoxicillin without the added ingredient clavulanic acid. So my question is if that would be safe, or if that is something I would have to notify to the science fair directors.

Hi there!

Great question and sounds like you are working on a fun experiment! Clavulanic acid is what is called a beta-lactamase inhibitor and part of the drug combination with amoxicillin to treat a lot of infections, as bacteria have become resistance to antibiotics like amoxicillin because they are able to produce beta lactamase enzymes which break down the amoxicillin. Here is a link which I think you'll find interesting about amoxicillin and clavulanic acid https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/dru ... 85024.html.

Yes it is perfectly safe, it's probably something you would want to make reference to in your materials/methods section. You can also try different Google searches for 'beta lactamases' or 'beta lactamase inhibitors' if you are interested in learning more about why these are used in combination with several different antibiotics in treating infections.

Please let us know if you have additional questions. Good luck!
Nikki