What is amoxicillin used for. How should you take amoxicillin. What are the common side effects of amoxicillin. Who should not take amoxicillin. How does amoxicillin work against bacterial infections. What precautions should you take when using amoxicillin. How long does it take for amoxicillin to work.

Understanding Amoxicillin: A Powerful Antibiotic

Amoxicillin is a widely prescribed antibiotic belonging to the penicillin family. It plays a crucial role in treating various bacterial infections, ranging from common respiratory ailments to more severe conditions. As healthcare professionals continue to rely on this versatile medication, it’s essential for patients to understand its uses, proper administration, and potential side effects.

What is Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that effectively combats a wide range of bacteria. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacterial cell walls, ultimately leading to their destruction. This mechanism of action makes amoxicillin particularly useful in treating infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

Available Forms of Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin comes in various forms to suit different patient needs:

• Capsules (typically 250mg or 500mg)
• Tablets
• Liquid suspension (for children and those who have difficulty swallowing pills)
• Injectable form (usually administered in hospital settings)

Common Uses of Amoxicillin 500mg

Amoxicillin 500mg is prescribed for numerous bacterial infections. Some of the most common conditions it treats include:

• Respiratory tract infections (bronchitis, pneumonia)
• Ear infections (otitis media)
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections
• Dental abscesses
• Helicobacter pylori infections (in combination with other medications)

How effective is amoxicillin against these infections? When prescribed appropriately, amoxicillin can significantly reduce symptoms and clear the infection within 7-10 days for most conditions. However, the exact duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity and type of infection.

Proper Dosage and Administration of Amoxicillin 500mg

Adhering to the prescribed dosage is crucial for the effective treatment of infections and to prevent antibiotic resistance. The typical dosage for adults is as follows:

• 500mg taken three times a day for most infections
• Higher doses may be prescribed for more severe infections
• Treatment duration usually ranges from 7 to 14 days, depending on the condition

Can you take amoxicillin with food? Amoxicillin can be taken with or without food, as it does not significantly affect its absorption. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset in some individuals.

Special Considerations for Children

For children, the dosage is typically based on their weight and the severity of the infection. It’s crucial to use the liquid form with the provided measuring device to ensure accurate dosing. Parents should always consult with a healthcare provider for specific dosing instructions.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While amoxicillin is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Yeast infections

Are there any serious side effects to be aware of? In rare cases, amoxicillin can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe rash, or swelling of the face or throat.

Drug Interactions

Amoxicillin can interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Some notable interactions include:

• Oral contraceptives (may reduce effectiveness)
• Methotrexate (increased risk of toxicity)
• Probenecid (increases amoxicillin levels in the body)

Patients should always inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Amoxicillin and Antibiotic Resistance: A Growing Concern

Antibiotic resistance is a global health issue that occurs when bacteria evolve to become less susceptible to antibiotics. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics, including amoxicillin, contribute to this problem.

Preventing Antibiotic Resistance

To help combat antibiotic resistance, patients should:

• Only take amoxicillin when prescribed by a healthcare professional
• Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve
• Never share antibiotics with others or use leftover antibiotics
• Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infections

Why is completing the full course of antibiotics important? Stopping treatment prematurely can allow surviving bacteria to develop resistance, making future infections more difficult to treat.

Amoxicillin vs. Other Antibiotics: Comparing Effectiveness

While amoxicillin is a versatile antibiotic, it may not be the best choice for all infections. Healthcare providers consider various factors when selecting an antibiotic, including:

• The type of bacteria causing the infection
• Local patterns of antibiotic resistance
• Patient-specific factors (allergies, medical history, etc.)

Amoxicillin Compared to Other Common Antibiotics

Here’s how amoxicillin compares to some other frequently prescribed antibiotics:

• Amoxicillin vs. Penicillin: Amoxicillin has a broader spectrum of activity and is better absorbed orally.
• Amoxicillin vs. Azithromycin: Azithromycin is often preferred for certain respiratory infections due to its longer half-life and fewer doses.
• Amoxicillin vs. Ciprofloxacin: Ciprofloxacin is more effective against certain gram-negative bacteria and is often used for urinary tract infections.

How do healthcare providers determine which antibiotic to prescribe? They consider factors such as the suspected causative organism, local antibiotic resistance patterns, and patient-specific characteristics to select the most appropriate antibiotic.

Amoxicillin in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding is a crucial consideration for healthcare providers and patients alike. Amoxicillin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but certain precautions should be taken.

Amoxicillin During Pregnancy

Amoxicillin is classified as a Category B drug by the FDA, meaning that animal studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. However, it should only be used during pregnancy when clearly needed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Can amoxicillin cause birth defects? Current evidence does not suggest an increased risk of birth defects associated with amoxicillin use during pregnancy. However, as with all medications, it should be used with caution and only when the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

Amoxicillin While Breastfeeding

Amoxicillin is considered compatible with breastfeeding. Small amounts of the drug may pass into breast milk, but it is not expected to cause harm to the nursing infant. However, mothers should be aware of potential side effects in the infant, such as diarrhea or rash, and report any concerns to their healthcare provider.

Amoxicillin for Dental Procedures: Prevention of Endocarditis

Amoxicillin plays a crucial role in preventing infective endocarditis in certain high-risk patients undergoing dental procedures. Endocarditis is a serious infection of the heart’s inner lining or valves, which can occur when bacteria enter the bloodstream during dental work.

Who Needs Antibiotic Prophylaxis?

The American Heart Association recommends antibiotic prophylaxis for patients with:

• Prosthetic heart valves
• A history of infective endocarditis
• Certain congenital heart defects
• Heart transplant recipients with valve problems

How is amoxicillin used for dental prophylaxis? A single dose of 2 grams of amoxicillin is typically given orally 30 to 60 minutes before the dental procedure. For patients who are allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics may be prescribed.

Managing Allergic Reactions to Amoxicillin

Allergic reactions to amoxicillin and other penicillin antibiotics are relatively common. These reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis. Understanding the signs of an allergic reaction and knowing how to respond is crucial for patient safety.

Types of Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to amoxicillin can be classified into several types:

• Immediate reactions: Occur within hours of taking the medication and can include hives, itching, and anaphylaxis
• Delayed reactions: Develop after 24 hours and may include maculopapular rashes
• Serum sickness-like reactions: Occur 1-3 weeks after starting the medication and can cause fever, joint pain, and rash

What should you do if you suspect an allergic reaction to amoxicillin? If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention. For severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or throat, call emergency services right away.

Cross-Reactivity with Other Antibiotics

Patients with a penicillin allergy may also be allergic to other beta-lactam antibiotics, such as cephalosporins. However, the risk of cross-reactivity is lower than previously thought. Healthcare providers will carefully assess a patient’s allergy history before prescribing alternative antibiotics.

The Future of Amoxicillin: Combating Antibiotic Resistance

As antibiotic resistance continues to pose a significant threat to global health, researchers and healthcare professionals are exploring new strategies to preserve the effectiveness of amoxicillin and other antibiotics.

Innovative Approaches

Some promising areas of research include:

• Combination therapies: Using amoxicillin in combination with other drugs to enhance its effectiveness against resistant bacteria
• Novel delivery methods: Developing new formulations that improve the drug’s penetration into bacterial cells
• Rapid diagnostic tests: Creating faster, more accurate tests to identify bacterial infections and guide appropriate antibiotic use
• Antibiotic stewardship programs: Implementing guidelines and education initiatives to promote responsible antibiotic use

How can patients contribute to the fight against antibiotic resistance? By using antibiotics responsibly, following prescribed treatment regimens, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use for viral infections, patients can play a crucial role in preserving the effectiveness of these life-saving medications.

The Importance of Ongoing Research

Continued research into new antibiotics and alternative treatment approaches is essential to address the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance. This includes exploring natural compounds with antimicrobial properties, developing novel synthetic antibiotics, and investigating non-antibiotic approaches to treating bacterial infections.

As we look to the future, the responsible use of amoxicillin and other antibiotics, combined with innovative research and public health initiatives, will be crucial in ensuring that these vital medications remain effective tools in the fight against bacterial infections.

Amoxicillin Pill Images – What does amoxicillin look like?

Print

Save

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.
Return to Pill Identifier…

Results for “Amoxicillin” (

1 – 18 of 52)

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 mg

Imprint

93 3107 93 3107

Color

Tan & White

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

1 / 2

Amoxicillin

Strength

125 MG

Imprint

221 B L

Color

White

Shape

Oval

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 MG

Imprint

biocraft 01

Color

Yellow / Brown

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 mg

Imprint

MYLAN 204 MYLAN 204

Color

Brown & Yellow

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

500 mg

Imprint

MYLAN 205 MYLAN 205

Color

Yellow

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

1 / 5

Amoxicillin trihydrate

Strength

500 mg

Imprint

AMOX 500 GG 849

Color

Yellow

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 mg

Imprint

93 613

Color

Brown & White

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

500 mg

Imprint

93 615

Color

White

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

1 / 2

Amoxicillin

Strength

500 mg

Imprint

93 2263

Color

White

Shape

Oval

View details

1 / 4

Amoxicillin

Strength

875 mg

Imprint

93 2264

Color

White

Shape

Oval

View details

1 / 2

Amoxicillin

Strength

125 mg

Imprint

93 2267

Color

White

Shape

Oval

View details

1 / 3

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 mg

Imprint

93 2268

Color

White

Shape

Oval

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

875 mg

Imprint

PL AT8

Color

Pink

Shape

Oval

View details

1 / 3

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 mg

Imprint

222 B L

Color

White

Shape

Oval

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

500 mg

Imprint

BIOCRAFT 03

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 mg

Imprint

125N

Color

Pink

Shape

Capsule-shape

View details

1 / 4

Amoxicillin

Strength

875 mg

Imprint

RX 763

Color

Pink

Shape

Oval

View details

1 / 3

Amoxicillin

Strength

250 mg

Imprint

RX 515

Color

Pink

Shape

Round

View details

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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 now if:

• your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
• you’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
• your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
• your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
• you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
• someone faints and cannot be woken up
• a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)

You or the person who’s unwell may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.

These can be signs of 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 – 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.

stage III

The disease is characterized by a slow response of the immune system and a high risk of developing autoimmune processes. These factors, combined with the possibility of intracellular parasites, increase the risk of chronic infection.