About

Amoxicillin is a widely used antibiotic in the penicillin group. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth.

It is commonly prescribed for infections such as:

Ear, nose, and throat infections (e.g., sinusitis, tonsillitis)

Respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia)

Urinary tract infections

Skin and soft tissue infections

Amoxicillin can come in the form of:

• Capsules
• Tablets
• Oral suspension/liquid
• Powder for injection (rarely used outside hospitals)

How and When to Use It

Take amoxicillin exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage: Doses vary based on the infection and patient age. Adults commonly take 250–500 mg every 8 hours, or 500–875 mg every 12 hours.

For children, the dose is usually calculated based on body weight.

Take amoxicillin with or without food. Swallow capsules or tablets with water. Shake liquid preparations well before use.

Complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and lead to antibiotic resistance.

Contraindications

Amoxicillin should not be taken if you have:

• Allergy to amoxicillin, penicillin, or any β-lactam antibiotic
• Severe kidney disease (dose adjustments may be needed)
• A history of cholestatic jaundice or liver dysfunction with previous amoxicillin use

Side Effects

Like all antibiotics, amoxicillin may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash or mild allergic reactions

Rare but serious side effects:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Clostridium difficile infection (severe diarrhea)
• Liver or kidney problems

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience swelling of face, lips, tongue, or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Fertility

Amoxicillin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Small amounts pass into breast milk, but they are unlikely to harm the baby.

There is no evidence that amoxicillin affects fertility in men or women.

Interactions With Other Medications

Some medications can interact with amoxicillin:

• Allopurinol may increase the risk of skin rash
• Oral contraceptives may be slightly less effective
• Warfarin and other anticoagulants (may affect blood clotting)
• Other antibiotics (consult your doctor before combining)

Frequently Asked Questions