What is Amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as:
- Tonsillitis
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Infections in the ear
- Sore nose, throat, skin
- Urinary tract
It is also combined with clarithromycin to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, sometimes alongside Lansoprazole to reduce stomach acid.
Amoxicillin Uses
- Take this medicine as directed by your doctor, with or without food, usually every 8 to 12 hours.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids while using this medication.
- Follow a regular schedule for taking this antibiotic to ensure optimal results.
- Complete the full prescribed course of medication, even if symptoms improve before finishing.
- Avoid stopping the medication prematurely, as it may lead to the return of the infection.
Amoxicillin Side Effects
Amoxicillin’s rare side effects can go away if your body gets used to the medication. For guidance on reducing or preventing side effects, speak with a doctor
- Dizziness
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Headache
- Difficulty in breathing
- Redness, soreness, or itching skin
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Vomiting
- Hives or welts
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Burning eyes
- Red or purple skin rash
- Blistering, Peeling, or Loosening of the skin
- Difficulty in swallowing
These side effects, experienced by about 10% of users, usually resolve with continued medication. Consult your doctor if they persist or worsen.
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects:
Serious side effects are rare. Call for medical attention immediately if you get:
- Pale stool with dark urine,
- yellowing of the skin, or the whites of your eyes
- Bruising or skin discoloration
- Joint or muscle pains
- A skin rash with red patches
Some of these serious side effects can happen up to 2 months after finishing the amoxicillin medication course prescribed by a doctor.
Serious allergic reaction:
About 1 out of 15 people experience an allergic reaction to amoxicillin. In many cases, the allergic reaction is mild and can take the form of:
- Itchy skin rash
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Mild allergic reactions can usually be treated by taking medications
Precautions of While Taking Amoxicillin
Some medications are not well combined with amoxicillin. Consult a doctor before taking amoxicillin medicine with other medications:
- Methotrexate
- A blood thinner called warfarin
- Gout medicines called probenecid and allopurinol
- Other antibiotics
Mixing amoxicillin with herbal remedies and supplements:
There are no known issues with the use of herbal remedies and supplements along with amoxicillin.
Dosage of Amoxicillin
Dosage is taken as directed by the physician. Dosing Recommendations for Adults and children > 3 Months.
| Infection | Severity | Usual Adult Dose | Usual Dose For Children > 3 Months |
| Ear / Nose / Throat Skin / Skin Structure Genitourinary Tract | Mild / Moderate | 500 mg every 12 hours or 250 mg every 8 hours | 20 mg per kg per day in divided doses every 8 hours |
| Ear / Nose / Throat Skin / Skin Structure Genitourinary Tract | Severe | 875 mg every 12 hours or 500 mg every 8 hours | 45 mg per kg per day in divided doses every 12 hours |
| Lower Respiratory Tract | Mild / Moderate or Severe | 875 mg every 12 hours or 500 mg every 8 hours | 40 mg per kg per day in divided doses every 8 hours |
Overdose:
Avoid overdosing on medication for faster recovery, as it can lead to liver damage. If you overdose, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose of medication may include the following:
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip it if it’s almost time for the next dose. Don’t double the medication to make up for the missed one.
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Decreased urination
- Swelling of any part of the body
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Amoxicillin Storage
Store at room temperature (10-30°C)
NOTE: These side effects may vary from one to one.
