Clavulanic acid is primarily used in combination with beta-lactam antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, to enhance their effectiveness against bacteria that produce beta-lactamase enzymes. These enzymes can render antibiotics ineffective by breaking them down. By inhibiting beta-lactamase, clavulanic acid allows the antibiotic to work more effectively, making it a key component in treating infections caused by resistant bacteria. It is commonly prescribed for respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and other bacterial infections where resistance is a concern. This combination therapy is widely used in both human and veterinary medicine.