What is Amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin is a version of the common antibiotic class, the penicillins, acts as a beta-lactam antibiotic,and kills bacteria by interfering with their cell wall growth.
Which Infections Can Amoxicillin Treat?
Amoxicillin is used alone or in combination for a variety of bacterial infections such as
- Acute otitis media (ear infection)
- Group A Streptococcal pharyngitis
- H. Pylori eradication (multi-drug regimen for stomach ulcers)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Respiratory tract infections
- Lyme disease
- Dental infections/procedures
- Chlamydial infections in pregnant women
Amoxicillin Forms?
Amoxicillin comes as
- Capsule,
- chewable tablet,
- oral suspension
- and in extended-release tablet.
Amoxicillin Allergic?
Allergy to penicillin is the most commonly reported drug allergy.
Amoxicillin should not be taken if you are allergic to any penicillin antibiotic, such as ampicillin, oxacillin, or penicillin.
Amoxicillin & Alcohol?
Drinking alcohol while fighting an infection can lead to dehydration and may hinder the body’s natural ability to heal itself. In general, most (not all) antibiotics can be taken safely with small amounts of alcohol, but it's probably better to skip the drink until you've finished your antibiotic.
Using Amoxicillin?
Be sure to complete all of your medicine, even if you feel 100% better. You can develop antibiotic resistance if you do not finish all of your medication, not to mention you won't get better.
Amoxicillin & Effectiveness of Hormonal Contraceptives?
Unless you are taking the antibiotic rifampin or rifabutin, Other antibiotics have not been shown to make the pill less effective. However, some doctors may still recommend to use an added method of birth control such as a condom for one week after antibiotic treatment.
Side Effects of Amoxicillin?
In general, amoxicillin is tolerated very well. However, some patients do have stomach upset, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea when using amoxicillin. Some reactions can be rare, but serious, and if you have any of these amoxicillin side effects be sure to contact a healthcare provider immediately
Severe allergies, anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Liver toxicity.
Easy bruising or bleeding.
Amoxicillin, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
In general, amoxicillin is considered safe in both situations if a women needs an antibiotic during pregnancy or lactation.
Amoxicillin is also considered safe to use while nursing; however, rash, diarrhea or thrush - a yeast infection of your infant's mouth - may occur infrequently, so double check with your pediatrician if you have concerns.
