What is amoxicillin used for. How does amoxicillin work. What are the common side effects of amoxicillin. Who can take amoxicillin. How should amoxicillin be taken. What are the potential risks of amoxicillin. When should you seek medical attention while taking amoxicillin.

Understanding Amoxicillin: A Versatile Antibiotic

Amoxicillin is a widely prescribed penicillin antibiotic used to combat various bacterial infections. This powerful medication plays a crucial role in treating conditions such as chest infections, including pneumonia, and dental abscesses. Its versatility extends to its use in combination with other antibiotics and medicines for addressing stomach ulcers.

One of the key advantages of amoxicillin is its suitability for pediatric use. Healthcare providers often prescribe it to treat ear infections and chest infections in children, making it a valuable tool in pediatric medicine.

Forms and Availability of Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is available in several forms to accommodate different patient needs:

• Capsules
• Liquid suspension
• Injectable form (typically administered in hospital settings)

It’s important to note that amoxicillin is a prescription-only medication, meaning it can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a healthcare professional.

Key Facts About Amoxicillin: Efficacy and Side Effects

When taking amoxicillin, patients can expect to experience improvement in their condition within a few days for most infections. However, it’s crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of antibiotics, even if symptoms subside, to prevent the recurrence of infection and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

While amoxicillin is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea

An interesting fact to note is that liquid amoxicillin can potentially stain teeth. However, this staining is temporary and can be removed through regular brushing.

Amoxicillin and Alcohol Consumption

Unlike some medications, amoxicillin does not interact with alcohol. This means that patients can consume alcohol while taking amoxicillin without compromising the effectiveness of the antibiotic or experiencing adverse reactions.

The Risk of Thrush

In some cases, amoxicillin use can lead to the development of thrush, a fungal infection. This occurs because antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the body, allowing opportunistic fungi to overgrow.

Eligibility for Amoxicillin Treatment

While amoxicillin is suitable for most adults and children, certain factors may make it inappropriate for some individuals. Before prescribing amoxicillin, healthcare providers need to consider the following:

• History of allergic reactions to amoxicillin, penicillin, or other medications
• Liver or kidney problems
• Recent or upcoming vaccinations

For children, specific dosing guidelines are available. Parents and caregivers can find detailed information about administering amoxicillin to children on the Medicines for Children website.

Proper Administration of Amoxicillin

Correct dosage and administration of amoxicillin are crucial for its effectiveness and safety. The typical dosage for adults is 250mg to 500mg, taken three times daily. Children may require lower doses, which are determined based on their age, weight, and the severity of the infection.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Amoxicillin is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Capsules: 250mg to 500mg
• Liquid suspension: 125mg and 250mg per 5mL

Timing and Administration Tips

To maximize the effectiveness of amoxicillin, consider the following guidelines:

1. Space doses evenly throughout the day (e.g., morning, afternoon, and bedtime for a three-times-daily regimen)
2. Take amoxicillin before or after food, as it can be taken with or without meals
3. Swallow capsules whole with water; do not chew or break them
4. For liquid formulations, use the provided measuring device (syringe or spoon) for accurate dosing

When administering liquid amoxicillin to children, always use the measuring device provided by the pharmacist. Kitchen teaspoons are not accurate and should not be used for medication dosing.

Managing Missed Doses and Overdose Situations

If a dose of amoxicillin is missed, take it as soon as remembered, unless it’s close to the time for the next scheduled dose. In such cases, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Never double up on doses to compensate for a missed one.

In cases of accidental overdose, while taking an extra dose is unlikely to cause serious harm, it’s advisable to consult a pharmacist or doctor for guidance. However, if you experience symptoms such as stomach pain, vomiting, blood in urine, or difficulty urinating after taking more than the prescribed dose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.

Recognizing and Managing Side Effects

While amoxicillin is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. These can range from common, mild reactions to rare but serious adverse effects.

Common Side Effects

Approximately 1 in 10 people experience common side effects, which include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea

These side effects are usually mild and often resolve on their own. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects

While rare (occurring in less than 1 in 1,000 people), serious side effects can occur. Immediate medical attention is necessary if any of the following symptoms are observed:

• Severe diarrhea containing blood or mucus, or diarrhea lasting more than 4 days
• Signs of liver or gallbladder problems (pale stools, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Unexplained bruising or skin color changes
• Joint or muscle pain occurring after 2 days of treatment
• Skin rash with circular red patches

It’s important to note that some serious side effects may occur up to 2 months after completing the amoxicillin course. Therefore, patients should remain vigilant even after finishing their treatment.

Allergic Reactions to Amoxicillin: What You Need to Know

Allergic reactions to amoxicillin occur in approximately 1 in 15 people. While most allergic reactions are mild and manifest as skin rashes, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential for more severe reactions.

Mild Allergic Reactions

Mild skin rashes are the most common form of allergic reaction to amoxicillin. These can often be managed with antihistamines. However, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any rash that develops during treatment.

Severe Allergic Reactions

In rare cases, amoxicillin can trigger a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe skin rash or hives
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness or fainting

If any of these symptoms occur, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Amoxicillin and Special Populations

While amoxicillin is widely used, certain populations may require special considerations when using this antibiotic.

Amoxicillin in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Amoxicillin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, as with any medication, it should only be used when the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should always consult their healthcare provider before taking amoxicillin.

Amoxicillin in Elderly Patients

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to certain side effects of amoxicillin, particularly those related to kidney function. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on kidney function tests. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential for this population.

Amoxicillin and Patients with Chronic Conditions

Patients with certain chronic conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or a history of gastrointestinal issues, may require special monitoring or dosage adjustments when taking amoxicillin. It’s crucial for these patients to inform their healthcare provider of all existing medical conditions before starting treatment.

Drug Interactions and Precautions

While amoxicillin is generally safe, it can interact with certain medications and substances. Being aware of these interactions is crucial for safe and effective treatment.

Common Drug Interactions

Amoxicillin may interact with the following:

• Methotrexate: Amoxicillin can increase the blood levels of methotrexate, potentially leading to toxicity
• Probenecid: This medication can increase amoxicillin levels in the body
• Oral contraceptives: Amoxicillin may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills
• Warfarin and other blood thinners: Amoxicillin may increase the risk of bleeding

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting amoxicillin treatment.

Precautions for Specific Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions may require special precautions when using amoxicillin:

• Mononucleosis: Amoxicillin can cause a rash in patients with this condition
• Phenylketonuria: Some liquid formulations of amoxicillin may contain aspartame, which should be avoided by individuals with this condition
• History of antibiotic-associated colitis: These patients may be at increased risk of developing C. difficile infection

Antibiotic Resistance and Responsible Use of Amoxicillin

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global concern, and the responsible use of antibiotics like amoxicillin is crucial in combating this issue.

Understanding Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of antibiotics. This can happen when antibiotics are overused or misused, allowing bacteria to develop mechanisms to survive in the presence of the drug.

Promoting Responsible Use

To help prevent antibiotic resistance, follow these guidelines:

1. Only take amoxicillin when prescribed by a healthcare professional
2. Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better
3. Never share antibiotics with others or use leftover antibiotics from previous treatments
4. Dispose of unused antibiotics properly
5. Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infections

By using amoxicillin responsibly, we can help ensure its continued effectiveness for future generations.

Alternatives to Amoxicillin: When It’s Not the Right Choice

While amoxicillin is a widely used and effective antibiotic, there are situations where alternative treatments may be more appropriate.

Reasons for Considering Alternatives

Healthcare providers may opt for alternative antibiotics in the following situations:

• Allergies to penicillin or amoxicillin
• Bacterial resistance to amoxicillin
• Specific types of infections that respond better to other antibiotics
• Presence of certain medical conditions or drug interactions

Common Alternatives to Amoxicillin

Some alternatives to amoxicillin include:

• Cephalosporins (e.g., cefuroxime, cefdinir)
• Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin, clarithromycin)
• Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin)
• Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline)

The choice of alternative antibiotic depends on various factors, including the type of infection, local resistance patterns, and individual patient characteristics.

Amoxicillin: antibiotic to treat bacterial infections

1. About amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections, such as chest infections (including pneumonia) and dental abscesses. It can also be used together with other antibiotics and medicines to treat stomach ulcers.

It’s often prescribed for children, to treat ear infections and chest infections.

Amoxicillin is only available on prescription. It comes as capsules or as a liquid that you swallow. It’s also given by injection, but this is usually only done in hospital.

2. Key facts

• For most infections, you’ll start to feel better in a few days.
• The most common side effects of amoxicillin are feeling sick (nausea) and diarrhoea.
• Liquid amoxicillin can stain your teeth. This does not last and is removed by brushing.
• You can drink alcohol while taking amoxicillin.
• Sometimes, taking amoxicillin can cause thrush.

3. Who can and cannot take amoxicillin

Amoxicillin can be taken by most adults and children.

Find out more about giving amoxicillin to children on the Medicines for Children website.

Amoxicillin is not suitable for everyone. To make sure amoxicillin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to amoxicillin or penicillin or any other medicine
• have liver or kidney problems
• have recently had, or are due to have, any vaccinations

4. How and when to take amoxicillin

Dosage

The usual dose of amoxicillin capsules is 250mg to 500mg, taken 3 times a day. The dose may be lower for children.

Amoxicillin liquid is available in 125mg and 250mg doses.

Important

Carry on taking this medicine until you’ve completed the course, even if you feel better. If you stop your treatment early, the infection could come back.

How to take it

Try to space the doses evenly throughout the day. If you take it 3 times a day, this could be first thing in the morning, mid-afternoon and at bedtime.

You can take amoxicillin before or after food.

Swallow amoxicillin capsules whole with a drink of water. Do not chew or break them.

Amoxicillin is available as a liquid for children and people who find it difficult to swallow capsules.

If you or your child are taking liquid amoxicillin, it will usually be made up for you by your pharmacist. The medicine will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to help you measure out the right dose. If you do not have one, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.

If you forget to take it

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. In this case, just leave out the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to remember your medicines.

If you take too much

Taking an extra dose of amoxicillin is unlikely to harm you or your child, but speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you’re worried.

Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:

You have taken more than your prescribed dose of amoxicillin and have symptoms including:

• stomach pain or you’re being sick
• blood in your pee
• difficulty peeing or producing less pee than usual

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111

5. Side effects

Like all medicines, amoxicillin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

These common side effects happen in around 1 in 10 people. Keep taking the medicine, but talk to your doctor or pharmacist if these side effects bother you or do not go away:

• feeling sick (nausea)
• diarrhoea

Serious side effects

Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1,000 people.

Call a doctor or call 111 now if you get:

• diarrhoea (possibly with stomach cramps) that contains blood or mucus or severe diarrhoea that lasts for more than 4 days
• pale poo and dark pee, and the whites of your eyes or your skin turn yellow (although this may be less obvious on brown or black skin) – these can be signs of liver or gallbladder problems
• bruising or changes in your skin colour
• joint or muscle pain that comes on after 2 days of taking the medicine
• a skin rash with circular red patches (this may be less obvious on brown or black skin)

Some of these serious side effects can happen up to 2 months after finishing the amoxicillin.

Serious allergic reaction

Around 1 in 15 people have an allergic reaction to amoxicillin.

In most cases, the allergic reaction is mild and can take the form of a skin rash.

Mild skin rashes can usually be treated by taking antihistamines.

In rare cases, amoxicillin can cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

These are not all the side effects of amoxicillin. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicines packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

6. How to cope with side effects of amoxicillin

What to do about:

• feeling sick – stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. It might help to take your amoxicillin after a meal or snack.
• diarrhoea – drink plenty of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor. If you take contraception and you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.

7. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Amoxicillin and pregnancy

It is safe to take amoxicillin during pregnancy.

Amoxicillin and breastfeeding

It is OK to take amoxicillin while breastfeeding. Information shows that only tiny amounts of amoxicillin get into breast milk. Such levels would not be expected to cause side effects in your baby.

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, health visitor or midwife if:

• your baby is not feeding as well as usual
• they have sickness or diarrhoea
• your baby has oral thrush, or a skin rash
• you have any other concerns about your baby

For more information about how amoxicillin can affect you and your baby during pregnancy, visit the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.

8. Cautions with other medicines

There are some medicines that do not mix well with amoxicillin.

Tell your doctor if you’re taking any of these medicines before you start taking amoxicillin:

• methotrexate, used to treat arthritis and psoriasis
• warfarin, a medicine to prevent blood clots
• gout medicines called probenecid or allopurinol
• other antibiotics

Tell your doctor if you’ve recently had, or are due to have, an oral typhoid vaccine. Amoxicillin can make it less effective.

Mixing amoxicillin with herbal remedies and supplements

There is little information about taking herbal remedies and supplements alongside amoxicillin.

Important:
Medicine safety

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines, vitamins or supplements.

9. Common questions about amoxicillin

How does amoxicillin work?

Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

When will I feel better?

For most infections, you should feel better within a few days.

It’s very important that you keep taking amoxicillin until your course is finished. Do this even if you feel better. It will help stop the infection coming back.

What if I do not get better?

Tell your doctor if you do not start feeling better after taking amoxicillin for 3 days. Also tell them if, at any time, you start to feel worse.

Will it give me thrush?

Some people get a fungal infection called thrush after taking a course of antibiotics like amoxicillin. If you think you have thrush, speak to your pharmacist or ask your doctor for advice.

How does amoxicillin compare with other antibiotics?

Amoxicillin and other penicillins, like phenoxymethylpenicillin, are antibiotics that are widely used to treat a variety of infections, including skin, dental, throat and chest infections.

Not all antibiotics are suitable for every infection. Your doctor will choose an antibiotic that’s suitable for the type of infection you have. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions.

Will it affect my contraception?

Amoxicillin does not stop contraceptive pills working, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.

However, if amoxicillin makes you sick (vomit) or have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.

Find about more about what to do if you’re on the pill and you’re being sick or have diarrhoea.

Will it affect my fertility?

There’s no evidence to suggest that taking amoxicillin reduces fertility in either men or women.

Does it stain teeth?

If you or your child take amoxicillin as a liquid medicine, it can stain your teeth. This does not last and should go after brushing your teeth well.

Amoxicillin capsules do not stain teeth.

Can I drive or ride a bike?

Yes. Amoxicillin should not affect you being able to drive or cycle.

Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?

You can eat and drink normally while taking amoxicillin.

Can I drink alcohol with it?

Yes, you can drink alcohol with amoxicillin.

Amoxicillin Pill Images – What does amoxicillin look like?

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What does Amoxicillin look like?

Note: Multiple pictures are displayed for those medicines available in different strengths, marketed under different brand names and for medicines manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies. Multi ingredient medications may also be listed when applicable.
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Further information

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Medical Disclaimer

Amoxicillin – Together by St. Jude

Antibiotic

Trademarks:

Moxatag®, Amoxil®

Other names:

p-Hydroxyampicillin

Often used for:

Infections

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic. Its action is aimed at the destruction of bacteria that cause infections. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic of the penicillin group. Amoxicillin is available in various dosage forms. Follow dosage instructions carefully.

Oral chewable tablets

Oral capsules

Oral liquid form

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Taste disturbance

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may occur: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle pain, shortness of breath, cough, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck

The listed side effects are not observed in all patients who are prescribed amoxicillin. The most common side effects are highlighted in bold, but others are not excluded. Report all possible side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

• Tell your doctor if you have severe diarrhea while taking this drug.
• It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking the drug. Drink the amount of fluid recommended by your doctor.
• Amoxicillin may interfere with some laboratory tests, especially in patients with high blood sugar (diabetes). Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to properly use the urine glucose test strips and how to interpret the results.
• Amoxicillin may increase or decrease the effectiveness of other medicines. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, especially if it is methotrexate or probenecid.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should notify their physician.
• The use of amoxicillin may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills and other hormonal methods of contraception. During therapy, patients who are sexually active should use other methods of contraception, such as condoms.
• The course of taking the drug must be completed completely in accordance with the recommendations of the attending physician or pharmacist.

Taking amoxicillin at home:

• It should be taken at the same time every day.
• Long-acting tablets: must be swallowed whole. It is not allowed to break, grind or chew them before taking. The extended-release tablets should be taken within 1 hour after a meal.
• Amoxicillin in other dosage forms can be taken with or without food. If the drug causes stomach upset, it must be taken with food.
• In liquid form: shake well before use, use the measuring device provided to measure the dosage. The drug in liquid form can be mixed with milk, juice, water or other cool drinks immediately before taking.
• Chewable tablet should be chewed or broken before swallowing.
• Take your dose as soon as possible if you miss it. Do not do this only if there is little time left until the next appointment. In no case do not double the dose at the next dose!
• Store amoxicillin at room temperature.
• Liquid amoxicillin may be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. After opening, store no more than 14 days.
• Do not use an expired drug.
• Follow instructions for safe storage and disposal of the drug.

More about amoxicillin

Tick-borne borreliosis (Lyme disease) – symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Infectious pathology proceeds according to the standard algorithm, which includes 3 stages, corresponding to the peculiarities of pathogenesis. Stages I and II are conventionally combined into the early phase of infection, and stage III represents the late phase of the disease. Each of the stages of Lyme borreliosis has a special symptom complex. In a separate category, a latent form is distinguished, in which there are no clinical signs, but the pathogen is in the body.

Stage I

At the initial stage, a person experiences signs of general intoxication: fever, chills, headaches and body aches occur. Less common are sore throat, dry cough and runny nose. Intense muscle pain and stiffness of the neck muscles are possible. The symptoms are similar to the flu and other respiratory infections.

The pathognomonic sign of borreliosis is erythema migrans annulare (ME), which manifests itself at the site of a tick bite. First, a red spot appears, which increases in size within a few days. Its edges remain bright red and slightly swollen, and the center turns pale, which is why the redness looks like a ring. The condition is accompanied by an increase in the lymph nodes, which are located near the bite. ME has a diameter of up to 20 cm, in rare cases it reaches a size of 50-60 cm. Redness is most often located on the legs, in the axillary and inguinal regions. If there have been several tick bites, a corresponding number of annular elements may occur. Erythema persists for 2-3 weeks, after which it disappears through the stage of residual pigmentation and desquamation.

In 30% of patients, the symptoms of tick-borne borreliosis are not accompanied by the appearance of ME. In this case, a small inflamed area is formed at the site of suction of the parasite. Occasionally, the disease is accompanied by benign lymphoplasia of the skin, which is also called lymphocytoma. It is manifested by painful bluish-red nodes, which are mainly localized on the face, around the mammary glands, in the genital area. Reactive lymphoproliferation persists for several months and resolves spontaneously.

The duration of stage I is 3-30 days. With the timely start of treatment, it is possible to completely remove the symptoms and eliminate negative long-term consequences. If therapy has not been carried out, the disease passes to stage II of development.

Stage II

Symptoms of the second stage of the disease occur in 10-15% of patients. This stage proceeds with the involvement of 3 body systems: nervous, cardiovascular, osteoarticular. In typical cases, borreliosis is manifested by the pathology of one of the 3 above-mentioned systems, but occasionally combined pathologies develop.

When the nervous system is involved in the process, the following symptoms of borreliosis occur:

1. Meningitis and meningoencephalitis. Infectious damage to the brain is manifested by severe headaches, repeated vomiting, increased susceptibility to bright light and loud sounds. Characterized by soreness of the occipital muscles, pain when moving the eyes. About a third of patients complain of drowsiness during the day and constant insomnia at night, memory impairment, emotional instability.
2. Neuritis of the cranial nerves. Most often, with Lyme borreliosis, the facial nerves are affected, which is accompanied by numbness of half of the face, drooping of the corner of the mouth, and speech disorders. Less often, the oculomotor, abducens, and optic nerves are involved in the process, which leads to complex disorders in the work of the visual analyzer.
3. Bannwart’s meningoradiculoneuritis. This is a disease specific to tick-borne borreliosis, in which the patient has a combination of signs of meningitis, damage to the cranial nerves and roots extending from the spinal cord. In addition to typical meningeal signs, intense pain in the neck and chest, paresis and paralysis of skeletal muscles, impaired coordination of movements and the ability to maintain balance develop.

Cardiovascular pathologies are registered in 10% of patients after 5-6 weeks from the onset of the infectious symptom complex. They are represented by pain in the left side of the chest, increased heart rate, a feeling of fading and interruptions in the work of the heart. Shortness of breath and dizziness caused by circulatory failure are also observed. In severe cases, pericarditis, myocarditis, dilated cardiomyopathy are possible.

Lyme disease typically involves the musculoskeletal system. Lyme arthritis occurs with damage to the large joints of the body as arthralgia, recurrent benign or chronic arthritis. These forms can pass into each other or appear in isolation. A feature of arthritis is inflammation of one or two large joints, in contrast to rheumatoid diseases, which primarily affect small joints and are characterized by symmetrical inflammation. The differential signs of Lyme arthritis include the same intensity of pain and stiffness, which does not depend on the time of day and the patient’s physical activity. Symptoms have an undulating course with periods of exacerbation lasting from several days to several weeks.

More rare symptoms include:

• red rash on palms;
• rashes in the form of wheals;
• benign skin lymphocytoma;
• myositis;
• generalized lymphadenopathy;
• hepatitis;
• jade;
• bronchitis;
• orchitis in men.