What is amoxicillin used for. How does amoxicillin work. What are the common side effects of amoxicillin. How long does amoxicillin stay in your system. What precautions should be taken when using amoxicillin.

Understanding Amoxicillin: A Powerful Antibiotic

Amoxicillin is a widely prescribed antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin class of drugs. It’s primarily used to combat infections caused by specific types of bacteria. This versatile medication comes in various forms, including oral tablets, capsules, and suspension, all of which are administered orally.

The oral tablet form of amoxicillin is available as immediate-release (IR) and chewable tablets. These are typically offered as generic drugs, making them more cost-effective for patients. While amoxicillin is effective on its own, it may sometimes be prescribed as part of a combination therapy, working alongside other medications to treat certain conditions.

How Does Amoxicillin Work?

Amoxicillin operates by targeting and eliminating bacteria while also inhibiting their growth within the body. This mechanism of action makes it an effective treatment for various bacterial infections. By interfering with the bacteria’s ability to multiply and spread, amoxicillin helps the body’s immune system to overcome the infection more efficiently.

Common Uses of Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is prescribed for a range of bacterial infections. Some of the most common conditions treated with this antibiotic include:

• Respiratory tract infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections
• Dental infections
• Ear infections
• Strep throat

It’s important to note that amoxicillin is only effective against bacterial infections and will not work for viral infections such as the common cold or flu.

Dosage and Administration of Amoxicillin

The dosage of amoxicillin can vary depending on several factors, including the type and severity of the infection, the patient’s age, weight, and overall health condition. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.

Is it necessary to complete the full course of amoxicillin?

Yes, it is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of amoxicillin, even if you start feeling better before finishing the medication. Stopping the treatment prematurely or skipping doses can lead to several problems:

1. The infection may persist or worsen
2. You might develop antibiotic resistance
3. Future bacterial infections may become more difficult to treat with amoxicillin

By finishing the full course as prescribed, you ensure the most effective treatment and reduce the risk of complications.

Side Effects of Amoxicillin

Like all medications, amoxicillin can cause side effects. While not everyone experiences these, it’s important to be aware of potential adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

The more frequently reported side effects of amoxicillin include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Vaginal yeast infection

These side effects are usually mild and may resolve on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks. If they persist or become severe, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects

While rare, some people may experience more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Liver damage
• Severe skin reactions

If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, severe skin rash, or signs of liver problems (like yellowing of the skin or eyes), seek medical help immediately.

Amoxicillin and Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to amoxicillin can occur and may range from mild to severe. People with known allergies to penicillin or other antibiotics in the same class are at a higher risk of experiencing an allergic reaction to amoxicillin.

Can an allergic reaction to amoxicillin be life-threatening?

Yes, in rare cases, an allergic reaction to amoxicillin can be severe and potentially life-threatening. This is known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction 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 you experience any of these symptoms after taking amoxicillin, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Duration of Amoxicillin in the System

Understanding how long amoxicillin remains active in your body is important for both effectiveness and safety considerations.

How long does amoxicillin stay in your system?

Typically, amoxicillin remains in your system for about 8 to 12 hours after your last dose. However, the effects of the medication may continue for some time after it has been eliminated from your body. The duration can vary depending on factors such as:

• Individual metabolism
• Kidney function
• Dosage
• Frequency of administration

It’s worth noting that while the medication may be cleared from your system relatively quickly, the therapeutic effects on the infection can last longer.

Precautions and Interactions

When taking amoxicillin, it’s essential to be aware of potential interactions with other medications and certain precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment.

What should be considered before taking amoxicillin?

Before starting amoxicillin treatment, inform your healthcare provider about:

• Any allergies, especially to penicillin or other antibiotics
• All medications you’re currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
• Any existing medical conditions, particularly kidney disease or mononucleosis
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding status

This information helps your healthcare provider determine if amoxicillin is the right choice for you and if any dosage adjustments are necessary.

Potential Drug Interactions

Amoxicillin can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some notable interactions include:

• Oral contraceptives: Amoxicillin may reduce their effectiveness
• Anticoagulants: May increase the risk of bleeding
• Probenecid: Can increase amoxicillin levels in the blood
• Allopurinol: May increase the risk of skin rash

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Amoxicillin Resistance and Antibiotic Stewardship

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics, including amoxicillin, have led to growing concerns about antibiotic resistance. This phenomenon occurs when bacteria evolve to become less susceptible or completely resistant to antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat.

How can antibiotic resistance be prevented?

To help combat antibiotic resistance and ensure the continued effectiveness of amoxicillin and other antibiotics, consider the following practices:

• Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional
• Complete the full course of antibiotics as directed
• Do not share antibiotics with others or use leftover antibiotics
• Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infections
• Stay up to date with vaccinations to reduce the need for antibiotics

By following these guidelines, you contribute to the responsible use of antibiotics and help preserve their effectiveness for future generations.

Special Considerations for Amoxicillin Use

While amoxicillin is generally safe and effective when used as directed, there are some special considerations to keep in mind for certain groups of people.

Amoxicillin Use in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Amoxicillin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during these periods. They can assess the potential risks and benefits based on your individual situation.

Pediatric Use of Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed for children to treat various bacterial infections. The dosage is typically based on the child’s weight and the specific condition being treated. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s instructions carefully and to use any provided measuring devices to ensure accurate dosing.

Amoxicillin and Elderly Patients

Older adults may be more susceptible to certain side effects of amoxicillin, particularly if they have reduced kidney function. Healthcare providers may adjust the dosage or monitor kidney function more closely in elderly patients taking amoxicillin.

Monitoring and Follow-up During Amoxicillin Treatment

While taking amoxicillin, it’s important to monitor your condition and be aware of any changes or new symptoms that may develop.

When should you contact your healthcare provider during amoxicillin treatment?

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

• No improvement in symptoms after a few days of treatment
• Worsening of symptoms
• Development of new or severe side effects
• Signs of an allergic reaction
• Persistent diarrhea, especially if it’s severe or contains blood

Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment or consider alternative options if amoxicillin is not effective or causing significant side effects.

Alternative Treatments and Complementary Approaches

While amoxicillin is an effective treatment for many bacterial infections, there may be situations where alternative antibiotics or complementary approaches are considered.

Alternative Antibiotics

If amoxicillin is not suitable due to allergies, resistance, or other factors, your healthcare provider may prescribe alternative antibiotics such as:

• Cephalosporins
• Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin)
• Fluoroquinolones
• Tetracyclines

The choice of alternative antibiotic depends on the specific infection, local resistance patterns, and individual patient factors.

Complementary Approaches

In addition to antibiotic treatment, certain complementary approaches may help support the body’s immune system and promote healing. These may include:

• Adequate rest and hydration
• Proper nutrition
• Probiotics to support gut health
• Symptomatic relief measures (e.g., pain relievers, decongestants)

It’s important to discuss any complementary approaches with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific situation.

The Future of Antibiotic Treatment

As antibiotic resistance continues to be a global concern, researchers and healthcare professionals are exploring new strategies to combat bacterial infections and preserve the effectiveness of existing antibiotics like amoxicillin.

Emerging Approaches in Antibiotic Development

Some promising areas of research in the field of antibiotic development include:

• Novel antibiotic classes targeting resistant bacteria
• Combination therapies to enhance effectiveness
• Bacteriophage therapy
• Immunomodulatory approaches
• Nanotechnology-based antibiotic delivery systems

These innovative approaches may help address the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance and provide new treatment options for bacterial infections in the future.

In conclusion, amoxicillin remains a valuable tool in the treatment of bacterial infections. By understanding its uses, potential side effects, and proper administration, patients can maximize the benefits of this antibiotic while minimizing risks. As with all medications, it’s crucial to follow healthcare providers’ instructions and maintain open communication throughout the treatment process. The responsible use of amoxicillin and other antibiotics is essential in preserving their effectiveness for future generations.

Side effects, dosage, uses, and more

1. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic. It’s used to treat infections caused by certain types of bacteria.
2. Amoxicillin oral tablet comes as immediate-release (IR) or chewable tablets. The chewable tablet and IR tablet are only available as generic drugs.
3. Amoxicillin also comes as a capsule and a suspension. All forms are taken by mouth. (This article focuses on the oral tablet forms only.)

Amoxicillin oral tablet does not cause drowsiness, but it can cause other side effects.

More common side effects

The more common side effects of amoxicillin oral tablet can include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• rash
• vaginal yeast infection

If these side effects are mild, they may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

• Hypersensitivity reactions. Symptoms can include:
  • flu-like symptoms, such as fever, body aches, or sore throat
  • a painful red or purple rash that spreads
  • blisters that could cause the skin to break down and cause open sores
• Liver damage. This effect is rare. Symptoms can include:
  • increased liver enzymes shown on a blood test
  • pain in the abdomen (stomach area)
  • yellowing of the skin and eyes
  • tiredness
• Serious skin reaction.* This side effect is rare. Symptoms may include:
  • flu-like symptoms, such as fever, body aches, or sore throat
  • a skin rash and discoloration
  • swollen lymph nodes
  • itchiness

* Serious skin reactions were not reported in clinical trials of amoxicillin. However, they have been reported since the drug was approved.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.

• Finishing therapy: It’s important to finish the entire course of amoxicillin treatment as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking this drug or skip doses if you start to feel better. This could cause your infection to last longer. You could also develop a resistance to the medication. This means that if you get a bacterial infection in the future, you may not be able to treat it with amoxicillin.
• Diarrhea: Amoxicillin may cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if you have bloody or watery diarrhea, with or without stomach cramps and fever.
• Serious skin reaction: Skin reactions can occur during amoxicillin treatment. In rare cases, serious skin reactions such as Steven-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis may occur. Talk with your doctor if you experience a skin rash or condition that becomes bothersome or doesn’t go away.
• Serious allergic reaction: This drug can cause a serious allergic reaction. This reaction can be fatal (cause death). If you’re allergic to other antibiotics, such as penicillins or cephalosporins, your risk for an allergic reaction may be higher. Call your doctor right away if you have trouble breathing or swelling of your throat or tongue while you’re taking this drug.

Amoxicillin is a prescription antibiotic. It’s used to treat infections caused by a certain type of bacteria. It may be used as part of combination therapy. This means you may need to take it with other medications.

The oral tablet comes as an immediate-release (IR) tablet and chewable tablet. These are only available as generic drugs.

Generic drugs usually cost less. Amoxicillin also comes as a capsule and a suspension. All forms are taken by mouth. This article focuses on the oral tablet forms only.

Why it’s used

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic. It’s used to treat infections caused by a certain type of bacteria.

Amoxicillin may be used as part of combination therapy. This means you may need to take it with other medications.

How it works

Amoxicillin belongs to a class of drugs called penicillins. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

Amoxicillin works by killing bacteria and stopping its growth in your body.

How long it lasts

The effects of amoxicillin should last as long as you continue taking the drug. Amoxicillin is typically a short-term treatment.

Amoxicillin typically stays in your system for 8 to 12 hours after your most recent dose. It’s possible to continue experiencing some effects of amoxicillin after you stop taking the drug, especially during this 8-hour to 12-hour period. However, the drug’s effects typically end when your treatment ends or soon afterward.

There have been reports of diarrhea lasting for up to 2 months after people stopped amoxicillin treatment. If you experience diarrhea after stopping amoxicillin, especially along with a fever or abdominal pain, talk with your doctor.

Amoxicillin oral tablets start working right away after taking a dose. It can take up to a couple of days after your first dose for the drug to start reducing symptoms of your infection.

If you have questions about how long amoxicillin treatment or its effects last, you can talk with your doctor.

As with all medications, the cost of amoxicillin can vary. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use. You can refer to this article for details about the cost of amoxicillin treatment.

Financial and insurance assistance

Financial assistance to help you pay for amoxicillin may be available.

Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds are two websites offering resources that may help decrease the price you pay for amoxicillin. They also offer tools to help you find low cost healthcare, as well as educational resources. To learn more, visit their sites.

You can also refer to the coupons in this article for possible ways to save on amoxicillin oral tablets.

To learn more about saving money on prescriptions, check out this article.

Mail-order pharmacies

Amoxicillin may be available through a mail-order pharmacy. Using this service may help lower the drug’s cost and allow you to get your medication without leaving home.

If you’re interested in this option, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company. Some Medicare plans may help cover the cost of mail-order medications.

If you don’t have insurance, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist about online pharmacy options.

This dosage information is for amoxicillin oral tablet. All possible dosages and drug forms may not be included here. Your dosage, drug form, and how often you take the drug will depend on:

• your age
• the condition being treated
• how severe your condition is
• other medical conditions you have
• how you react to the first dose

Forms and strengths

Generic: amoxicillin

• Form: oral tablet
• Strengths: 500 milligrams (mg), 875 mg
• Form: oral chewable tablet
• Strengths: 125 mg, 250 mg

Note: Amoxicillin also comes as a capsule and a suspension, both of which are taken by mouth. This article focuses on the oral tablet forms only.

Dosage for infections of the ears, nose, and throat

IMMEDIATE-RELEASE TABLET AND CHEWABLE TABLET

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Typical dosage is 500 mg every 12 hours, or 250 mg every 8 hours.

Child dosage (ages 3 months–17 years)

Typical dosage is 25 mg per kilogram per day (mg/kg/day) in divided doses every 12 hours, or 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours.

The children’s dosage listed here is meant for children who weigh less than 88 pounds (40 kg). Children who weigh more than 88 pounds should be dosed according to the adult recommendations.

Child dosage (ages 0–2 months)

Maximum dosage is 30 mg/kg/day. Your child’s doctor can tell you more about dosage.

Dosage for urinary tract infections

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Typical dosage is 500 mg every 12 hours, or 250 mg every 8 hours.

Child dosage (ages 3 months–17 years)

Typical dosage is 25 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours, or 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours.

Child dosage (ages 0–2 months)

Maximum dosage is 30 mg/kg/day. Your child’s doctor can tell you more about dosage.

Older adult dosage (ages 65 years and older)

The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as they used to. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of a drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects.

Your doctor may start you on a lower dose or a different dosing schedule. This can help keep levels of this drug from building up too much in your body.

Special considerations

• For children’s dosage: The children’s dosage listed here is meant for children who weigh less than 88 pounds (40 kg). Children who weigh more than 88 pounds should be dosed according to the adult recommendations.

Dosage for skin infections

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Typical dosage is 500 mg every 12 hours, or 250 mg every 8 hours.

Child dosage (ages 3 months–17 years)

Typical dosage is 25 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours, or 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours.

The dosage listed here is meant for children who weigh less than 88 pounds (40 kg). Children who weigh more than 88 pounds should be dosed according to the adult recommendations.

Child dosage (ages 0–2 months)

Maximum dosage is 30 mg/kg/day. Your child’s doctor can tell you more about dosage.

Older adult dosage (ages 65 years and older)

The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as they used to. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of a drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects.

Your doctor may start you on a lower dose or a different dosing schedule. This can help keep levels of this drug from building up too much in your body.

Dosage for lower respiratory tract infections

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Typical dosage is 875 mg every 12 hours, or 500 mg every 8 hours.

Child dosage (ages 3 months–17 years)

Typical dosage is 45 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours, or 40 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours.

Child dosage (ages 0–2 months)

Maximum dosage is 30 mg/kg/day. This is meant for children who weigh less than 88 pounds (40 kg). Children who weigh more than 88 pounds should be dosed according to the adult recommendations. Your child’s doctor can tell you more about dosage.

Older adult dosage (ages 65 years and older)

The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as they used to. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of a drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects.

Your doctor may start you on a lower dose or a different dosing schedule. This can help keep levels of this drug from building up too much in your body.

Dosage for gonorrhea

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Typical dosage is 3 grams (g) as a single dose.

Child dosage (ages 24 months–17 years)

Typical dosage is 50 mg/kg amoxicillin combined with 25 mg/kg probenecid as a single dose. The children’s dosage listed here is meant for children who weigh less than 88 pounds (40 kg).

Children who weigh more than 88 pounds should be dosed according to the adult recommendations.

Child dosage (ages 0–23 months)

This medication should not be used in children younger than 2 years of age for treatment of gonorrhea.

Older adult dosage (ages 65 years and older)

The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as they used to. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of a drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects.

Your doctor may start you on a lower dose or a different dosing schedule. This can help keep levels of this drug from building up too much in your body.

Dosage for stomach and intestinal ulcers

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

• Typical dosage for triple therapy: 1 g amoxicillin with 500 mg clarithromycin and 30 mg of lansoprazole, all given twice per day for 14 days.
• Typical dosage for dual therapy: 1 g amoxicillin and 30 mg of lansoprazole, given three times per day for 14 days.

Child dosage (ages 0–17 years)

This drug has not been studied in children to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers.

Older adult dosage (ages 65 years and older)

The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as they used to. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of a drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects.

Your doctor may start you on a lower dose or a different dosing schedule. This can help keep levels of this drug from building up too much in your body.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this list includes all possible dosages. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your doctor or pharmacist about dosages that are right for you.

Amoxicillin oral tablet can interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well.

To help avoid interactions, your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, or herbs you’re taking.

To find out how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Examples of drugs that can cause interactions with amoxicillin are listed below.

Drugs that increase the risk of side effects from amoxicillin

Taking amoxicillin with certain medications raises your risk of side effects from amoxicillin. This is because the amount of amoxicillin in your body may be increased. Examples of these drugs include:

• Probenecid: Taking probenecid with amoxicillin could lead to increased blood levels of amoxicillin. A doctor may need to decrease the dose of amoxicillin in some patients.
• Allopurinol: If you use allopurinol and amoxicillin together, you may develop a rash.

Interactions that increase the risk of side effects from other drugs

Taking amoxicillin with certain medications raises your risk of side effects from these medications. Amoxicillin increases the amount of these drugs in your body.

Examples of these drugs include drugs to treat blood clots. These are called anticoagulants (or blood thinners) and include warfarin (Jantoven), apixaban (Eliquis), heparin, and others.

If you use these drugs with amoxicillin, you have a higher risk of bleeding. Your doctor may adjust your dose of amoxicillin as a result.

Interactions that can make your drugs less effective

When amoxicillin is less effective: When amoxicillin is used with certain drugs, it may not work as well. In vitro studies have shown potential interactions that can cause the amount of amoxicillin in your body may be decreased.

Because in vitro studies are only conducted in a lab and not on live subjects, it is not clear whether this can significantly impact you if you’re taking amoxicillin with these drugs.

Nevertheless, examples of these drugs include:

• Chloramphenicol
  • If you use these drugs together, your doctor will likely keep your dosage of amoxicillin the same.
• Macrolides, such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or azithromycin
  • If you use these drugs together, your doctor will likely keep your dosage of amoxicillin the same.
• Sulfonamides, such as sulfamethoxazole
  • If you use these drugs together, your doctor will likely keep your dosage of amoxicillin the same.
• Tetracyclines, such as tetracycline or doxycycline
  • If you use these drugs together, your doctor will likely keep your dosage of amoxicillin the same.

When other drugs are less effective: When certain drugs are used with amoxicillin, they may not work as well. This is because the amount of these drugs in your body may be decreased. Examples of these drugs include:

• Oral contraceptives (birth control)
  • If you need to take amoxicillin, you should consider using a barrier method of birth control while on amoxicillin. Or, your doctor may prescribe a different form of birth control for you.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare professional about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you’re taking.

This drug comes with several warnings.

Allergies

Amoxicillin can cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms can include:

• trouble breathing
• swelling of your throat or tongue

If you have an allergic reaction, call your doctor or seek guidance from America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or through its online tool. If your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Don’t take this drug again if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to it. Taking it again could be fatal (cause death).

Warnings for people with certain health conditions

For people with mononucleosis (mono or kissing disease): Amoxicillin raises your risk of developing a severe rash.

For people with diabetes: Amoxicillin may cause you to have a false-positive reaction when testing for glucose (sugar) in the urine. Talk with your doctor about how to manage your blood sugar while taking amoxicillin.

For people with kidney disease: If you have severe kidney disease, your kidneys may not clear this drug from your body quickly. As a result, levels of amoxicillin may build up in your body. To help prevent this, your doctor may give you a lower dose of this drug.

Warnings for other groups

For pregnant people: Research in animals has not shown adverse effects on the fetus when pregnant animals were exposed to amoxicillin. There haven’t been enough studies done on humans to be certain if the drug poses a risk to the fetus. However, you may want to still speak with your doctor if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

For people who are breastfeeding (nursing): Amoxicillin may pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. Talk with your doctor if you are breastfeeding your child. You may need to decide whether to stop breastfeeding or stop taking this medication.

For older adults (ages 65 years and over): The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as those of younger adults. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of a drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects.

Amoxicillin oral tablet is used for short-term treatment. It comes with serious risks if you don’t take it as prescribed.

If you stop taking the drug suddenly or don’t take it at all: Your bacterial infection may not heal or may get worse.

If you miss doses or don’t take the drug on schedule: Your medication may not work as well or may stop working completely. For this drug to work well, a certain amount needs to be in your body at all times.

It’s important to finish the entire course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking the drug or skip doses if you start to feel better. This could cause your infection to last longer.

You could also develop a resistance to the medication. This means if you get a bacterial infection in the future, you may not be able to treat it with amoxicillin.

If you take too much: You could have dangerous levels of the drug in your body. Symptoms of an overdose may not be significant at less than 250 mg/kg. In higher-dose cases, it may lead to kidney failure.

If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor or seek guidance from America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or through its online tool. If your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

What to do if you miss a dose: Take your dose as soon as you remember. But if you remember just a few hours before your next scheduled dose, take only one dose. Never try to catch up by taking two doses at once. This could result in dangerous side effects.

How to tell if the drug is working: The symptoms of your infection should ease.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes amoxicillin oral tablet for you.

General

• Take this drug at the time(s) recommended by your doctor.
• You can take the amoxicillin capsule, tablet, or suspension with or without food.
• You can crush, cut, or chew regular or chewable amoxicillin tablets.

Storage

Store amoxicillin at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). Keep this drug away from light. Don’t store this medication in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms.

Refills

A prescription for this medication may be refillable. You should not need a new prescription for this medication to be refilled. Your doctor will write the number of refills authorized on your prescription.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

• Always carry your medication with you. When flying, never put it in a checked bag. Keep it in your carry-on bag.
• Don’t worry about airport X-ray machines. They can’t hurt your medication.
• You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled box with you.
• Don’t put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

Clinical monitoring

You and your doctor should monitor certain health issues. This can help make sure you stay safe while you take this drug. These issues include your:

• Kidney function. Blood tests can check how well your kidneys are working. If your kidneys aren’t working well, your doctor may decide to lower your dosage of this drug.
• Liver function. Blood tests can check how well your liver is working. If your liver isn’t working well, your doctor may lower your dosage of this drug.

The cost of these blood tests will depend on your insurance coverage.

There are other drugs available to treat your condition. Some may be better suited for you than others. Talk with your doctor about other drug options that may work for you.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

What is the best antibiotic to treat strep throat?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Nov 10, 2022.

Penicillin or amoxicillin are considered the best first-line treatments for Strep throat. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) “There has never been a report of a clinical isolate of group A strep that is resistant to penicillin”.

For people with a penicillin allergy, treat Strep throat with either a narrow-spectrum cephalosporin (such as cephalexin or cefadroxil), clindamycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin. Note that resistance to azithromycin and clarithromycin has been reported.

What are the recommended dosages of antibiotics used to treat Strep throat?

Antibiotic dosages can vary depending on age and weight. The CDC recommends the following dosages of antibiotics for Strep throat, for those people without a penicillin allergy. One dosage regimen should be chosen that is appropriate for the person being treated.

Oral Penicillin V

• Children: 250mg twice daily or 250mg three times daily for 10 days
• Adolescents and adults: 250mg four times daily or 500mg twice daily for 10 days

Oral amoxicillin

• Children and adults: 50 mg/kg once daily (maximum 1000mg once daily) for 10 days
• Children and adults: 25 mg/kg twice daily (maximum 500mg twice daily) for 10 days

Intramuscular Benzathine penicillin G

• Children <27 kg: 600 000 units as a single dose
• Children and adults ≥27 kg: 1 200 000 units as a single dose

The CDC recommends the following dosages of antibiotics for Strep throat, for those people with a penicillin allergy. One dosage regimen should be chosen that is appropriate for the person being treated.

• Oral cephalexin 20 mg/kg twice daily (maximum 500 mg twice daily) for 10 days
• Oral cefadroxil 30 mg/kg once daily (maximum 100mg once daily) for 10 days
• Oral clindamycin 7 mg/kg three times daily (maximum 300 mg three times daily) for 10 days
• Oral azithromycin 12 mg/kg once daily for the first day (maximum 500 mg), followed by 6 mg/kg once daily (maximum 250 mg once daily) for the next 4 days
• Oral clarithromycin 7.5 mg/kg twice daily (maximum 250 mg twice daily) for 10 days.

Are antibiotics always necessary to treat a Strep throat?

Although most Strep throats will get better by themselves, there is a risk of acute rheumatic fever and other complications (such as oral abscesses or mastoiditis [a bacterial infection in the mastoid process, which is the prominent bone behind the ear]) occurring. The CDC recommends that all patients, regardless of age, who have a positive rapid antigen detection test (RADT) (also known as the rapid streptococcal test, which detects the presence of GABHS cell wall carbohydrate from swabbed material) or throat culture receive antibiotics.

Antibiotics have been shown to:

• Shorten the duration of Strep throat symptoms
• Reduce the likelihood of transmission to family members, friends, and other close contacts
• Prevent the development of rheumatic fever and other complications.

Viral sore throats should not be treated with antibiotics. Treatment is usually given for ten days and liquid antibiotics can be given to children who are unable to swallow tablets or capsules. Some patients may benefit from a single shot of penicillin intramuscularly.

What are the symptoms of a Strep throat?

Generally, Strep sore throats tend to be very painful and symptoms persist for a lot longer than sore throats due to another cause. Swallowing may be particularly difficult and painful. Symptoms of a Strep throat may include:

• Sudden onset of sore throat
• Very red and swollen-looking tonsils and back of the throat
• Sometimes streaks of pus or red spots may appear on the roof of the mouth
• A headache
• Fever and Chills
• Swollen and tender glands (lymph nodes) in the neck.

Children are more likely to feel sick (develop nausea) and vomit.

People with a Strep throat do NOT typically have a cough, runny nose, hoarseness, mouth ulcers, or conjunctivitis. If these symptoms occur there is more likely to be a viral cause for the sore throat.

Some people (usually children aged 4 to 8years) are susceptible to the toxins (poisons) produced by the S. pyrogenes bacteria and develop a bright red rash that feels like sandpaper to the touch. A rash caused by S. pyrogenes bacteria is known as Scarlet Fever (also called scarlatina). Although it usually follows a sore throat, it may also occur after school sores (impetigo).

How is a Strep throat diagnosed?

A throat swab taken by a doctor and then cultured in a laboratory is the only way to definitively tell if a sore throat is a Strep throat. If the result is positive, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to prevent any complications, reduce symptoms, and prevent spread to other people.

Are Strep throats contagious?

Yes, Strep throats are contagious, and the bacteria are easily transmitted and spread by coughing or sneezing or after coming into contact with infected droplets, and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. Transmission of bacteria can also occur via contact with people with Scarlet fever, or other group A skin infections.

Without treatment, people with Strep throat can pass on the bacteria to others for one to two weeks after symptoms appear. The best way to prevent infection is to wash your hands often and always before eating or after being in contact with an infected person. Do not share utensils, linen, or personal items. People with Strep throat or scarlet fever should stay home for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics or until they feel well enough to return to school or work.

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is the name given to a bright red rash that develops following a Strep throat, although it can also develop following school sores (impetigo).

Scarlet fever is less common than it was one hundred years ago because of antibiotic use and it only occurs in those who are susceptible to the toxins produced by the Streptococcal bacteria. It mostly occurs in children aged 4 to 8 years. By 10 years old more than 80% of children have developed lifelong protective antibodies against streptococcal toxins, whilst infants younger than 2 still have antibodies against the toxin that they acquired from their mother. This means that if two children in one family develop Strep throat, only one may develop scarlet fever.

Scarlet fever is a bright red rash that feels like sandpaper to the touch. The rash typically starts on the neck, underarm, or groin as small, flat red blotches that gradually become fine bumps and feel rough to the touch. In the body folds (such as in the armpits, elbows, and groin) the rash may appear a brighter red (called Pastia’s lines). Facial flushing is common although a pale area may remain around the mouth. After seven days, the rash fades and some skin peeling may occur over the next month or longer, particularly around the fingertips, toes, and groin area.

Left untreated, Scarlet fever may progress to:

• Ear, sinus, and skin infections
• Joint inflammation
• Rheumatic fever (an inflammatory disease that can cause permanent heart damage and also affect the brain, joints, and skin)
• Otitis media
• Pneumonia
• Septicemia
• Glomerulonephritis
• Osteomyelitis.

In the pre-antibiotic era, death occurred in 15-20% of people with Scarlet fever. Nowadays, most people fully recover within four to five days with antibiotics.

What is Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever can develop following a Strep throat infection or scarlet fever. Although rare in the contiguous U.S., the disease is still prevalent in children of Samoan descent living in Hawaii and residents of American Samoa.

Symptoms of rheumatic fever usually show 14 to 28 days after a Strep infection. Because the bacteria trick the body’s immune system into attacking healthy tissues, the disease can affect the heart, joints, skin, and brain.

Symptoms of rheumatic fever include:

• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Joint swelling, pain, redness, or warmth
• Nose bleeds
• A rash on the upper part of the arms or legs (usually ring-shaped or snake-like)
• Skin nodules or lumps
• Unusual crying or laughing or quick jerky movements of the face, hands, or feet.

Rheumatic fever has the potential to cause life-long cardiac problems if not treated promptly or properly. Antibiotics are effective at preventing the disease if administered within nine days of symptoms. Children who develop rheumatic fever may need regular penicillin injections until the age of 21 or for 10 years after diagnosis.

References

• Oakley A. Scarlet fever. DermNet NZ. Updated Sept 2015. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/scarlet-fever/#:~:text=Scarlet%20fever%20occurs%20mostly%20in,and%20females%20are%20affected%20equally.
• Pharyngitis (Strep Throat) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-hcp/strep-throat.html#:~:text=Penicillin%20or%20amoxicillin%20is%20the,is%20common%20in%20some%20communities.

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Medical Disclaimer

Antibiotics for the treatment of sore throat: for or against?

PUBLICATIONS

During the discussion, the following points were discussed:

It is important to emphasize the difference between sore throat, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis: the latter two refer to the physical detection, while the former refers to the subjective symptom.

A sore throat is often associated with a cold. According to a recent study, more than 80% of students with an acute viral respiratory tract infection had pain at the onset of the disease.

Viruses can be detected in up to two-thirds of children with pharyngitis using polymerase chain reaction analysis. Scientists believe that antibiotics should be given to 30-40% of patients with confirmed GAS (Group A streptococcus) infection. The potential role of Fusobacterium necrophorum has been reconsidered, but there is no evidence of benefit from antibiotic treatment in cases of this infection.

It has been suggested that instead of focusing on the sore throat, the question of whether antibiotics should be used to treat GAS infection should be discussed. The question of confirming the diagnosis remained open. The use of diagnostic tools such as Centor, McIsaac and FeverPAIN has been recommended: the higher the score, the more likely the patient is suffering from a GAS infection.

Symptom scores are often inaccurate, especially in young children. An example was given of a report that examined the use of the Centor instrument in 441 children attending a pediatric emergency department. The authors concluded that the Centor criteria were ineffective in predicting a positive GAS culture in throat swabs from symptomatic patients.

It is widely accepted that antibiotics should be avoided in viral infections. A clinical case was discussed of a patient with a 2-day history of sore throat, fever, enlarged tonsils and cervical lymph nodes, but no cough or rhinitis; the patient had a FeverPAIN score of 4–5 and 4 points, in accordance with European recommendations, it is an indication for antibiotic treatment. However, swabs were positive for adenovirus.

Also cited was a similar case where a 5-year-old boy had a FeverPAIN score of 4-5 and a Centor score of 3. The culture from his throat swab was GAS positive, illustrating the problem of distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections.

If cultures from the pharynx are GAS-positive, is this a direct indication for antibiotic therapy? On the one hand, it prevents serious complications such as rheumatic fever. At the same time, there is a low level of acute rheumatic fever in developed countries (in Hungary there has not been a single case in the last 30 years).

At the moment, there is no statistically significant evidence that antibiotics prevent the development of angina. The delay in seeking care means that the window for treatment is often missed. However, if symptoms appear early, there is no statistical evidence that antibiotics can prevent the development of angina. In addition, such prevention means excessive use of antibiotics.

A Cochrane review indicates a reduction in the duration of sore throat and fever with antibiotic therapy. In addition, compared with placebo, antibiotics reduce the incidence of purulent complications such as acute otitis media and sinusitis after sore throat. Other studies have also pointed to the potential benefit of reducing transmission within families where one of the relatives with pharyngitis was GAS positive.

Source:

medscape.com/viewarticle/942876#vp_1

Antibacterials-Amoxicillin 15%, 100 ml/vial

Description

Amoxicillin veterinary, 15% antibiotic, in 10 ml or 100 ml vial. Designed to treat infections caused by bacteria. Used to treat various animals: cats, dogs, etc. 1 ml contains 150 milligrams of amoxicillin trihydrate and an oily-looking filler.

Indications

Veterinary amoxicillin is prescribed for the treatment of gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria, namely enteritis, gastroenteritis, gastroenterocolitis; respiratory diseases – bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, rhinitis; surgical diseases – wounds, abscesses, inflammation of the joints; diseases associated with the genitourinary organs – metritis, endometritis, cystitis, urethritis, pyelonephritis; skin diseases and diseases of soft tissues, various complications caused by microorganisms sensitive to the drug in various types of animals: dogs, cats, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs. Treatment of mastitis, agalactia, leptospirosis, actinomycosis, erysipelas, parainfluenza and paratyphoid in pigs.

Doses and method of administration of veterinary amoxicillin

This drug is administered to animals intramuscularly or subcutaneously at a dose of 1 milliliter per 10 kilograms of animal weight, that is, 15 milligrams of the substance per 1 kilogram of body weight. If the animal has renal insufficiency, then an accurate adjustment of the dose of the drug is necessary. The contents of the vial, before use, must be thoroughly shaken in order to obtain a homogeneous suspension. If necessary, the drug can be administered again after two days. If the dose of the drug exceeded 20 ml, then it must be administered in several injections and in different places. After that, it is recommended to massage the injection site.

Pharmacological properties

Veterinary amoxicillin is a semi-synthetic antibiotic of the penicillin group. Excellent effect on gram-positive, such as – Actinomyces spp. , Bacillus anthracis, Clostridium spp., Corynebacterium spp., Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp. and gram-negative microorganisms – Actinobacillus spp., Bordetella onchiseptica, E. coli, Salmonella spp., Fusobacterium spp., Haemophilus spp., Moraxella spp., Pasteurella spp., Proteus mirabilis. On strains of penicillin-forming microorganisms – Klebsiella, Enterobacter and Pseudomonas, this drug does not work. Amoxicillin veterinary, preventing the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, inhibits the enzymes transpeptidase and carboxypeptidase and disrupts the osmotic balance. These processes lead to the fact that bacteria die in the process of growth. The oily filler, which is part of the drug, gradually releases micronized amoxicillin into the blood, which ensures the duration of the antibiotic. If the drug is used parenterally, in this case it is perfectly absorbed, well dispersed throughout the body. Due to the fact that the connection with plasma proteins is 17-20%, which is insignificant, the highest concentration is achieved in muscle tissues, liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract. Amoxicillin passes insignificantly into the brain and bone fluid. The exception is when the meninges are inflamed. In plasma, the concentration reaches a maximum one to two hours after the drug is administered and remains at the required level for about two days. Metabolization of amoxicillin practically does not occur, it is excreted in urine, milk and bile.

Side effects

Allergic reactions are possible to veterinary amoxicillin. However, they immediately disappear after the drug is stopped. With an overdose, intoxication is almost impossible. If allergic reactions occur, it is recommended to administer corticosteroids and adrenaline.

Contraindications

A contraindication to the use of amoxicillin is hypersensitivity to this drug and other types of penicillin. Do not administer this drug intravenously. It is not suitable for rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and gerbils. It should not be mixed with other drugs, it should not be used together with chemotherapeutic bacteriostatic substances.