Does Gloclav Make You Sleepy? Understanding Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Side Effects

October 9, 2025 •

4 min read

While fatigue is not a common side effect for many antibiotics, studies indicate that certain patients may experience unusual tiredness or weakness while on medication. Understanding the potential side effects of amoxicillin/clavulanate, the medication marketed as Gloclav, is crucial for patients wondering, does Gloclav make you sleepy?

Quick Summary

Analyzes the link between Gloclav (amoxicillin/clavulanate) and drowsiness, detailing rare side effects, the influence of the underlying infection, and strategies for managing fatigue during treatment.

Key Points

Drowsiness is Rare: Sleepiness is not a common side effect of Gloclav but is listed as a potential symptom of an overdose.
Infection is the Main Culprit: Feelings of fatigue or tiredness while on antibiotics are most often caused by the body fighting the underlying infection, not the medication itself.
Individual Variation: Some patients report insomnia or restlessness as a rare nervous system side effect, showing that individual reactions to the medication differ.
Rest is Critical: Getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating well are essential strategies for managing the fatigue associated with illness and antibiotic use.
Monitor for Serious Symptoms: If extreme tiredness is accompanied by other severe symptoms like serious diarrhea or yellowing skin, it could indicate a serious complication like a C. difficile infection or liver issues, and medical attention is required.
Consult a Professional: Discuss any concerns about persistent or severe fatigue with your healthcare provider, who can help determine the cause and adjust your treatment if necessary.

Gloclav and Its Active Ingredients

Gloclav is a brand name for the antibiotic medication containing two active ingredients: amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic that fights a wide range of bacteria by preventing them from forming cell walls. Clavulanate potassium, a beta-lactamase inhibitor, is added to protect amoxicillin from bacterial enzymes that could otherwise make the antibiotic ineffective. This combination makes the medication more powerful against certain resistant bacteria.

Is Drowsiness a Common Side Effect of Gloclav?

For most people, Gloclav does not typically cause drowsiness or sedation. Drowsiness is considered a rare side effect. However, sources like the Mayo Clinic and Medicinenet note that sleepiness can be a symptom of an overdose of amoxicillin/clavulanate. In contrast, some patients report experiencing insomnia or restlessness as a rare nervous system side effect. The discrepancy highlights that individual reactions to the medication can vary significantly.

Fatigue vs. Drowsiness: Is It the Infection or the Medication?

It is important to distinguish between general fatigue and the specific side effect of drowsiness. Many people feel tired while taking antibiotics, but this is most often a result of their body fighting the underlying infection. The immune system expends a significant amount of energy, leading to a feeling of weakness or exhaustion. The body’s recovery process requires rest, which can naturally increase feelings of sleepiness.

Common side effects of Gloclav that are not related to drowsiness include:

Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
Skin rashes and hives
Headaches and upset stomach
Vaginal itching or discharge

Managing Tiredness While Taking Gloclav

If you find yourself feeling unusually tired while on Gloclav, there are several steps you can take to support your body's recovery and minimize the impact of fatigue:

Prioritize Rest: Listen to your body and give it the rest it needs. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night and allow for short naps if necessary.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to fatigue. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea.
Eat Balanced Meals: Focus on nutrient-rich foods to help maintain energy levels. Smaller, more frequent meals can be easier to tolerate if you experience stomach upset.
Consider Probiotics: Antibiotics can disrupt your gut microbiome. Probiotics from supplements or foods like yogurt can help restore a healthy balance, which may aid in overall well-being.
Time Your Dosage: If you feel the medication affects your sleep, discuss with your doctor whether taking it at a different time, such as earlier in the day, might help.

Comparison of Sleepiness/Fatigue Side Effects


Feature	Gloclav (Amoxicillin/Clavulanate)	Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Cipro)	Macrolides (e.g., Azithromycin)
Drowsiness/Sleepiness	Rare side effect; more noted as an overdose symptom.	Can cause nervousness, agitation, and potentially affect sleep patterns.	Rare reports of fatigue, but not a known common cause of drowsiness.
Insomnia/Restlessness	Reported as a rare nervous system side effect.	Known to cause insomnia and sleep disturbances in some cases.	Minimal reports of insomnia, but individual reactions vary.
General Fatigue	Commonly linked to the underlying infection rather than the medication itself.	Can be a reported side effect, though individual response varies.	Reported as a rare side effect, less than 1% in some trials.
Overdose Symptoms	Sleepiness, diarrhea, stomach pain.	Serious side effects vary; seizures possible at high doses.	Serious side effects vary, cardiac issues possible.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

While mild fatigue is often part of the recovery process, certain symptoms warrant contacting your doctor immediately. If you experience severe or extreme tiredness, especially if accompanied by other serious signs, it could be an indicator of a more significant issue.

Warning signs include:

Extreme tiredness or unusual weakness
Severe diarrhea that is watery or bloody
Signs of liver problems, such as yellowed skin or eyes, dark urine, or pale stools
Fever, blistering, peeling skin, or other severe allergic reaction signs
Little or no urination

Conclusion

In summary, while it is possible for Gloclav (amoxicillin/clavulanate) to cause sleepiness, it is not a common side effect and is more often associated with an overdose. The fatigue many people experience while on antibiotics is typically a natural part of the body’s healing process as it fights the infection. By focusing on adequate rest, proper hydration, and nutritious meals, you can support your body and minimize the feeling of exhaustion. If you experience severe or unusual symptoms, or if your fatigue is debilitating, it is always best to consult your healthcare provider to rule out any more serious complications. For more information on amoxicillin and clavulanate, you can also consult resources like the Mayo Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gloclav is a brand name for a combination antibiotic containing amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium, used to treat bacterial infections.

Sleepiness is not a common side effect but has been reported in rare cases. It is also listed as a symptom of an overdose. The fatigue experienced by many patients is more likely due to the body fighting the infection.

Gloclav and Augmentin both contain the same active ingredients, amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium, but are different brand names for the medication.

Yes, some patients have reported experiencing insomnia or other nervous system effects like anxiety or agitation, though this is also a rare side effect.

To manage fatigue, prioritize rest and sleep, stay well-hydrated, eat balanced and nutritious meals, and consider taking probiotics. Avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine can also help.

If you experience extreme tiredness accompanied by severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, skin rash, or signs of liver problems (like yellowing skin or dark urine), contact your doctor immediately.

No, you should not stop taking Gloclav without consulting your doctor. Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent antibiotic resistance.