How much amoxicillin should be taken for an ear infection. What is the proper use of amoxicillin for treating bacterial infections. What are the key facts about amoxicillin that patients should know. Who can safely take amoxicillin and who should avoid it. How and when to take amoxicillin for optimal effectiveness. What are the common and serious side effects of amoxicillin.

Understanding Amoxicillin: A Powerful Antibiotic for Bacterial Infections

Amoxicillin is a widely prescribed penicillin antibiotic used to combat various bacterial infections. Its versatility makes it an essential medication in modern healthcare, particularly for treating respiratory and dental infections. But how does amoxicillin work, and what makes it so effective?

Amoxicillin works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, effectively stopping the infection in its tracks. It’s particularly useful for treating:

• Chest infections, including pneumonia
• Dental abscesses
• Ear infections in children
• Stomach ulcers (when combined with other medications)

Is amoxicillin available over the counter? No, this antibiotic requires a prescription from a healthcare professional. It comes in various forms to suit different patient needs:

• Capsules
• Liquid suspension
• Injectable form (typically administered in hospitals)

Key Facts About Amoxicillin: What Patients Need to Know

Before starting an amoxicillin regimen, it’s crucial to understand some key facts about this medication. How quickly does amoxicillin work? Most patients begin to feel better within a few days of starting treatment. However, it’s essential to complete the entire prescribed course to prevent the infection from returning.

What are the most common side effects of amoxicillin?

• Nausea
• Diarrhea

While these side effects can be uncomfortable, they’re generally mild and manageable.

Can amoxicillin affect your appearance? In some cases, liquid amoxicillin may temporarily stain teeth. However, this discoloration is not permanent and can be removed through regular brushing.

Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking amoxicillin? Unlike some antibiotics, amoxicillin does not interact with alcohol. However, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider about alcohol consumption during any course of medication.

Can amoxicillin cause other infections? In some instances, taking amoxicillin can lead to the development of thrush, a fungal infection. If you experience symptoms of thrush, consult your doctor for appropriate treatment.

Who Should Take Amoxicillin and Who Should Avoid It?

While amoxicillin is suitable for most adults and children, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid the medication entirely. Who should not take amoxicillin?

• Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to penicillin or other antibiotics
• Patients with liver or kidney problems
• Those who have recently received or are scheduled to receive certain vaccinations

How can you determine if amoxicillin is safe for you? Always inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, including any allergies or ongoing health conditions. They can assess whether amoxicillin is the best choice for your specific situation.

Proper Dosage and Administration of Amoxicillin

Understanding the correct dosage and administration of amoxicillin is crucial for its effectiveness. What is the typical dosage for adults? The standard dose for amoxicillin capsules ranges from 250mg to 500mg, taken three times daily. However, dosages may vary depending on the severity and type of infection being treated.

How is amoxicillin administered to children? For pediatric patients, amoxicillin is often prescribed in liquid form, available in 125mg and 250mg concentrations. The dosage for children is typically lower than for adults and is based on the child’s weight and the severity of the infection.

Tips for Taking Amoxicillin Correctly

To ensure maximum effectiveness of amoxicillin:

1. Space doses evenly throughout the day (e.g., morning, afternoon, and bedtime)
2. Take the medication with or without food
3. Swallow capsules whole with water
4. Use the provided measuring device for liquid formulations
5. Complete the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms improve

What should you do if you miss a dose? If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

Managing Side Effects and Potential Complications

While amoxicillin is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and complications. What are the most common side effects of amoxicillin?

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach discomfort

These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

When should you seek immediate medical attention while taking amoxicillin? Contact a healthcare professional immediately if you experience:

• Severe diarrhea containing blood or mucus
• Signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes, pale stools, dark urine)
• Unusual bruising or skin discoloration
• Joint or muscle pain that develops after starting the medication
• Skin rash with circular red patches

Allergic Reactions to Amoxicillin

How common are allergic reactions to amoxicillin? Approximately 1 in 15 people may experience an allergic reaction to this antibiotic. In most cases, these reactions are mild and manifest as skin rashes, which can often be managed with antihistamines.

What are the signs of a severe allergic reaction to amoxicillin? Severe allergic reactions, while rare, can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe skin reactions

Amoxicillin for Ear Infections: Dosage and Effectiveness

Ear infections are a common reason for prescribing amoxicillin, especially in children. How effective is amoxicillin for ear infections? This antibiotic has shown high efficacy in treating bacterial ear infections, often providing relief within a few days of starting treatment.

What is the typical dosage of amoxicillin for ear infections? The dosage can vary based on several factors:

• Age of the patient
• Severity of the infection
• Patient’s weight (particularly important for children)

For adults, the standard dose is usually 500mg three times daily for 5-7 days. For children, the dosage is weight-based and typically ranges from 20-90mg/kg/day, divided into two or three doses.

How long should amoxicillin be taken for an ear infection? The duration of treatment is typically 5-7 days, but it’s crucial to complete the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Monitoring Progress and Follow-Up

How can you tell if amoxicillin is working for an ear infection? Signs of improvement may include:

• Reduced pain and discomfort
• Decreased fever
• Improved hearing
• Better sleep patterns (especially in children)

When should you follow up with your healthcare provider? If symptoms persist or worsen after 2-3 days of treatment, or if new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider for a follow-up assessment.

Amoxicillin and Antibiotic Resistance: A Growing Concern

The effectiveness of antibiotics like amoxicillin can be compromised by the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. How does antibiotic resistance occur? It happens when bacteria evolve to survive the effects of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat.

What can be done to prevent antibiotic resistance? To help combat this issue:

1. Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional
2. Complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed
3. Never share antibiotics with others or use leftover antibiotics
4. Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infections

Is amoxicillin still effective against common infections? While amoxicillin remains a valuable antibiotic for many infections, healthcare providers may sometimes choose alternative treatments based on local resistance patterns and individual patient factors.

The Future of Antibiotic Treatment

What developments are on the horizon for antibiotic treatment? Researchers are continually working on new approaches to combat bacterial infections, including:

• Development of new classes of antibiotics
• Combination therapies to enhance effectiveness
• Novel delivery methods to improve efficacy and reduce side effects
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic factors

How can patients contribute to responsible antibiotic use? By following prescriptions carefully, communicating openly with healthcare providers, and staying informed about antibiotic resistance, patients play a crucial role in preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics like amoxicillin for future generations.

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: About Amoxicillin & Its Dosage For Ear Infection

Reeta is a caretaker at a crèche, where she provides day-care services to children of all ages. During the absence of parents, she is often confronted with situations where her wards face certain infections in the ear, and she is required to address their problem on an urgent basis.

When it comes to administering medicine to any of her children, she is cautious about providing them only with the correct dosage. She is unsure about the penicillin drug, which goes by the generic name of Amoxicillin. When one of her wards faced an ear infection, she began considering the correct medicine dosage for him.

Here is some basic information about amoxicillin everyone needs to know. 

What Are Amoxicillin and its uses?

Known more commonly as Amoxil, this prescription medicine treats various symptoms, including bacterial infections in the ear, nose, and throat. To treat the symptoms, Amoxil may be used on its own or in combination with another drug. It is one of the most common antibiotic medicines used in primary care setting. 

The medicine is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by isolates of the Streptococcus species. The administration should be made as per recommended amoxicillin dosage for ear infection by weight after obtaining the doctor’s advice. To reduce chances of developing resistance to the drug, it should only be given when a bacterium causes an infection.

What Are the Side Effects of Consuming Amoxicillin?

Even though the administration may be made as per amoxicillin dosage for ear infection by weight, it can be the cause of some severe side effects in the body, including the following:

• Burning sensation while urinating.
• Pain
• Difficulty in breathing.
• Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.
• Fever
• Sore throat.
• Blistering and peeling of skin with a red or purple skin rash.
• Pain in the stomach.
• Diarrhea

Common side effects of the medicine may manifest in the form of nausea, rash, and vomiting. It is necessary to consume the proper amoxicillin dosage for ear infection by weight to minimize the chances of contracting any of these side effects.

Formulations Of Amoxicillin

The broad-spectrum bactericidal medicine shows action against gram-positive and gram-negative types of microorganisms. It is available for consumption in the following formulations:

Capsules

The usual capsules of Amoxicillin are capped in royal blue and bright pink colors, and they have dosages of 250 mg or 500 mg in the form of a trihydrate. The name of the medicine and the appropriate mg dosage can be seen printed on each capsule.

Tablets

Recommended amoxicillin dosage for ear infection by weight may include a 500 mg or 875 mg tablet, which is manufactured in the form of trihydrate. The film-coated tablet is shaped like a capsule with a debossing of the name ‘Amoxil’ and applicable mg on the reverse side of the tablet.

Powder

To be administered in the form of a 5 ml solution containing 125 mg, 200 mg, 250 mg, or 400 mg of trihydrate.

Correct Amoxicillin Dosage for Ear Infection by Weight

It should be noted that the medicine should be taken only under the guidance of a doctor. It is not wise to consume it for a more extended period than necessary or greater quantity than the doctor recommended. It can be consumed with or without food on the side.

The amoxicillin dosage for ear infections by weight will be different for every patient. It is necessary to follow the instructions listed on the label and follow the advice of your doctor to avoid indulging in overdosing on the medicine.

It is necessary to pay enough attention to the dosage quantity, the interval between two dosages, and the number of times in a day that the dosage is given to ensure that you are not consuming more or less than what is necessary.

Oral Dosage (Capsules, Powder for Suspension, and Tablets)

• Adults, teenagers, and children weighing more than 40 kg should be given 250 mg to 500 mg at a gap of every 8 hours, or 500 mg to 875 mg once every 12 hours, depending on the severity of the infection.
• Children and infants who are older than three months in age and weigh less than 40 kg should consult a doctor to seek recommendations based on the body’s weight. Usually, they recommend up to 20 mg to 40 mg of medicine per kg of weight for a day. The dosage should be divided such that it is given every 8 hours. The medication could also be recommended based on 25 mg to 45 mg of dosage per kg of body weight, divided for administration every 12 hours.
• Infants younger than three months should also be given the medicine based on a doctor’s recommendation. Usually, they prescribe up to 30 mg of the medicine for every kg of the body weight, divided for administration every 12 hours during the day.

If any medicine dosage is missed, it is ideal to consume it as soon as possible. However, if it has been many hours since you missed the last dose, then skip the dose altogether, especially if the time of your second dosage is near. At all costs, store the medicine out of reach of children and do not consume the medicine if it has expired.

The Bottom Line

Amoxil is a common drug for treating ear infections and can be administered to adults, kids, and even infants. It is directed for use in case of several other conditions, but it should also be consumed only after a recommendation from a doctor. Strict attention should be paid to the dosage and consumption of the medicine only at the recommended intervals. This will help in avoiding any side effects that could result due to the consumption of the medicine. Avoid consuming the medicine without reason to prevent the development of resistance to the bacteria. 

Please note that everything mentioned here is for informational purposes only. You should always consult a doctor before taking bactericidal and/or any other medicines. 

FAQs

How much amoxicillin should I take for an ear infection?

The doctor prescribes this medicine based on some factors such as a person’s age. The are usually available as capsules or tablets in different dosages. You must complete the course of medicines prescribed by your doctor and not tamper with the dosage to avoid resistance to the drug and/or other complications.

This drug can be prescribed to most children and adults, but some people may need additional medication with this drug to make it safe. You should inform the doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to amoxicillin, penicillin, and other medicines, have kidney or liver problems, or have any recent/due vaccinations.

What does amoxicillin do?

Amoxicillin, a penicillin antibiotic, is used to treat the bacterial infections (of the streptococcus species) of the ear and other organs. It is a broad-spectrum bactericidal medicine that fights a wide variety of gram-positive bacteria as well as some gram-negative ones.

Antibiotic therapy for otitis | Ovchinnikov Yu.M.

This topic can be presented in several sections, since we should talk not only about otitis externa and otitis media, but also about acute and chronic processes in these parts of the ear, since each of these diseases requires an independent medical approach.

Unfortunately, at present, along with the success of pharmacotherapy, social changes have occurred in society that largely reduce the effectiveness of the use of the latest drugs that can not only shorten the duration of acute ear disease, but also prevent its transition to a subacute and chronic process. First of all, this refers to the lack of the previous possibility of conducting a general medical examination of patients with ear diseases.

The decrease in the level of well-being of the population, the quality of life, the growth of infectious diseases significantly complicate the provision of appropriate assistance to patients with inflammation of the middle ear, especially chronic ones.

The problems of providing effective assistance to patients with ear diseases cannot be reduced only to the choice of a drug that has a well-pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, and one cannot rely only on the “power” of the newest antibiotic. Therefore, the use of antibiotics should be under the control of otoscopy with an analysis of the effectiveness of the treatment, otherwise the opposite can be achieved – allow the acute process to turn into a chronic one or unsuccessfully affect chronic suppurative otitis media, which may require surgical intervention. It is noted that one of the reasons indirectly contributing to the emergence, persistent and prolonged course of the so-called exudative otitis media, the incidence of which is growing, are acute respiratory viral diseases, more often against the background of an enlarged pharyngeal tonsil and allergies. The irrational use of antibiotics, for example, at the first signs of catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, otitis media, leads to a muting of the active purulent process in the middle ear, when some of its symptoms disappear (for example, pain) and the process turns into a sluggish inflammation. This eventually leads to a violation of the main function of the ear – persistent hearing loss. Elimination of pain in the ear – the most disturbing symptom for the patient – does not mean the elimination of inflammation, but only helps to reduce the patient’s motivation for further treatment.

As practice shows, after 1-2 days after the appointment of potent antibiotics, the pain in the ear disappears, and the patient rarely continues to take them in full (50% stop taking them on the 3rd day, 70% on the 6th day). Therefore, one should not trust only antibiotic therapy for acute otitis media and exacerbation of a chronic disease, since in addition to fighting an active infection, it is necessary to create all conditions for the evacuation of inflammatory exudate, including purulent, from the middle ear cavities, otherwise the inflammatory process is delayed. In addition, the opinion that flora plays a decisive role in the development of inflammation in a closed cavity, for example, in the middle ear, and especially in the chronicity of inflammation, is currently debatable, since the state of immunity, both general and local, has an undoubted effect. influence on the nature of the course of the inflammatory process. The microorganism gives impetus to the emergence of an acute process in the ear, and then the complex of opposing forces of the body determines the transition of the process to a chronic one or recovery occurs. Therefore, antibacterial therapy for various inflammatory diseases of the middle ear should be carried out, presenting the nature of the inflammatory process (catarrhal, purulent, destructive, allergic), taking into account the data of otoscopy and always after obtaining information about the nature of the microbial flora in the discharge from the ear, its sensitivity to one or another antibiotic. One thing is certain, that for a patient with an inflammatory process in the middle and even more so in the inner ear, the use of “ototoxic” antibiotics of the aminoglycoside group is contraindicated, since this can, even after a single instillation of the solution into the ear, not to mention parenteral administration, lead to a severe outcome – irreversible hearing loss and even deafness due to damage to the receptor department of the cochlea. Based on the foregoing, first of all, it must be emphasized that antibiotic therapy cannot be a panacea, but is only part of a set of therapeutic measures that provide relief of an acute and exacerbation of a chronic process in the cavities of the outer and middle ear . The methods of using antibiotic therapy for ear diseases can be varied – from topical application in the form of drops injected into the ear through the external auditory canal, to taking the antibiotic inside and parenterally.

In parallel, it can be noted that since the infection penetrates into the middle ear, mainly through the auditory tube from the nasopharynx, its sanitation, including with the help of topical antibiotics, is entirely justified. For example, fusafunzhin, used in the form of a spray, provides sanitation of the nasal cavity, nasopharynx, nasopharyngeal mouth of the auditory tube, has an effect on gram-positive and gram-negative cocci and rods, anaerobes, fungi.

Acute otitis media

It is generally accepted that until natural perforation of the tympanic membrane has occurred and exudate has not appeared, which can be characterized as purulent, acute otitis media can be classified as “catarrhal”, and treatment does not require the addition of antibiotic therapy, with the exception of the previously mentioned fusafungine for irrigation of the mucous membrane of the cavity nose, nasopharynx. This prevents further infection of the middle ear and suppresses the flora in the nasal cavity, pharynx, trachea. Antibiotics for acute otitis media should be prescribed in cases where the measures taken (anemization of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, nasopharynx; a warming compress on the mastoid process; analgesics, etc.) do not stop the process – pain in the ear continues, hearing decreases, increased body temperature, the general condition of the patient worsens. Usually, acute catarrhal otitis media, with a favorable course, ends by the 4-5th day. After the occurrence of perforation or its creation artificially (tympanopuncture, paracentesis), it becomes possible to identify the flora and determine its sensitivity to antibiotics. But even before the perforation of the eardrum, it is sometimes necessary to prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics, taking into account the most common flora in acute otitis media:

• Amoxicillin 1 capsule 3 times a day with plenty of fluids 2 hours after meals, course 7-10 days.

• Ampicillin trihydrate by mouth 1 tablet or capsule (adults 250-1000 mg, children 125-500 mg) 4 times a day for 5 days.

• Phenoxymethylpenicillin orally 3 tablets per day, children under 14 years of age 50-60 thousand units per 1 kg of body weight per day.

• Spiramycin 6–9 million IU, i.e. 2-3 tablets.

• Azithromycin orally 1 hour before meals, 500 mg once a day for 3 days. Children: 1 tablet 125 mg 1 time per day.

• Cefazolin intramuscular injection in procaine solution. The bottle contains 0.25–0.5 or 1 g of powder for dilution. For 7 days, 1-4 times a day.

• Ciprofloxacin 1 tablet 2 times a day for 7 days.

Thus, the arsenal of antibiotics, which have a very effective effect in the treatment of patients with acute purulent otitis media, is sufficient, and by the end of the week after the start of treatment, almost complete remission occurs – the pain in the ear stops, there is no discharge from the ear canal. However, the criterion for complete recovery is the restoration of hearing, for which a wide range of measures that are not related to the fight against inflammation in the ear should be used.

Chronic otitis media

Treatment of patients with chronic purulent otitis media necessarily implies the use of various antibiotics , since in chronic inflammation of the middle ear polyflora or even flora changing during long-term treatment can be isolated. The doctor encounters special difficulties in the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the purulent discharge of Proteus . In these cases, treatment can last for months or even years. In chronic otitis, the use of antibiotics orally or parenterally is indicated only in cases of exacerbation of the process in the middle ear or in the postoperative cavity, if the patient underwent a debridement operation on the ear. Basically, antibiotics in chronic otitis media have to be used in the form of drops, washing liquids, ointments. It is necessary not only to eliminate the revealed flora, but also to achieve repair of the mucosa disturbed by inflammation, which is sometimes associated with the need for immunocorrection. It has been proven that, along with anti-inflammatory therapy, detoxification therapy is necessary, since the level of medium molecular peptides in blood plasma correlates with the severity of intoxication.

From the arsenal of antibiotics used for chronic purulent otitis media, its exacerbations, you can use drugs from the list above. An addition to it may be a list of antibiotics that affect Proteus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli:

• Ciprofloxacin orally 125-500 mg 1 tablet 2 times a day.

• Chloramphenicol (alcoholic solution: 100 ml contains 0.25 chloramphenicol) for instillation into the ear in case of Proteus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, bacteria resistant to penicillin, streptomycin.

• Netilmicin is used for injection in an ear process supported by gram-negative microorganisms. It is used at 4 mg per day in equal portions 2 times a day.

Otitis externa

Diseases of the skin of the external auditory canal can also have an acute and chronic course with exacerbations, accompanied by pain in the ear, congestion, itching and purulent discharge. Depending on the nature of the pathogen, the clinical picture may indicate a fungal or bacterial-coccal flora . Focusing on the clinical manifestations, the doctor can assume the nature of the pathogen, but only a microbiological examination allows you to accurately select the type of medication that is appropriate in each case.

As a rule, local treatment for fungal otitis externa is quite successful. In cases of prolonged otitis externa caused by a Candida fungus, the antibiotic nystatin is used (adults inside 500 thousand units 3-4 times a day for 10-14 days). Of the ointments containing antibiotics, many doctors still prefer to prescribe the well-established Oxycort ointment (it contains hydrocortisone and oxytetracycline).

For boils of the external auditory canal and diffuse inflammation of the skin of the external auditory canal, it is rational to use gramicidin in the form of alcohol drops (2% alcohol solution, 2–3 drops each). Containing gramicidin is also a very active sofradex (the bottle contains 5-8 ml of solution, 2-3 drops are used 3 times a day for 1 week). It must be remembered that the topical application of some antibiotics can have an ototoxic effect in the presence of a perforation in the eardrum. It must be emphasized once again that antibiotics for inflammation of the skin of the external auditory canal cannot be monotherapy and in the vast majority of cases should be used in combination with measures to activate the body’s defenses and additional effects on tissues (physiotherapy, opening a boil, etc. ).

Amoxicillin 150, 50 ml. ANTIBACTERIAL. veterinary preparations. Veterinary pharmacy “ZooPharm”

COMPOSITION AND FORM OF RELEASE

Long-acting antibacterial drug containing 150 mg of amoxicillin in the form of trihydrate as an active ingredient in 1 ml and an oily filler. Produced in the form of a sterile white suspension for injection in dark glass bottles of 50 ml.

PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

Amoxicillin is a semi-synthetic antibiotic from the penicillin group. Has a wide spectrum of bactericidal action against gram-positive (Actinomyces spp. , Bacillus anthracis, Clostridium spp., Corynebacterium spp., Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp.) and gram-negative microorganisms (Actinobacillus spp., Bordetella bronchiseptica, E coli, Salmonella spp., Fusobacterium spp., Haemophilus spp., Moraxella spp., Pasteurella spp., Proteus mirabilis). The drug does not act on penicillinase-forming strains of microorganisms from the genera Klebsiella and Enterobacter, as well as Pseudomonas. Amoxicillin interferes with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall by inhibiting the enzymes transpeptidase and carboxypeptidase and causing osmotic imbalance, which leads to the death of the bacterium during the growth stage. The oily filler, which is part of the drug, gradually releases micronized amoxicillin into the blood, thereby providing a long-term effect of the antibiotic. When administered parenterally, amoxicillin is well absorbed into the blood from the injection site and rapidly distributed in the body, reaching the highest concentration in muscle tissue, liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract due to a slight connection with plasma proteins (17-20%). Amoxicillin penetrates the brain and bone fluid to a small extent, except when the meninges are inflamed. The maximum plasma concentration is reached within 1-2 hours after the administration of the drug and remains at a therapeutic level for 48 hours. Amoxicillin is practically not metabolized. Excreted from the body mainly with urine, to a lesser extent with milk and bile.

INDICATIONS

Indicated in cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, dogs and cats for the treatment of bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal tract (including enteritis, gastroenteritis, gastroenterocolitis), respiratory diseases (including bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, rhinitis), surgical diseases (including wounds, abscesses, inflammation of the joints), diseases of the genitourinary system (metritis, endometritis, cystitis, urethritis, pyelonephritis), diseases of the skin and soft tissues (including umbilical infections), as well as complications caused by microorganisms sensitive to amoxicillin. For the treatment of leptospirosis, mastitis, agalactia in pigs, actinomycosis, swine erysipelas, parainfluenza and paratyphoid.

DOSES AND METHOD OF APPLICATION

Amoxicillin is administered to animals intramuscularly or subcutaneously at a dose of 1 ml per 10 kg of animal weight (15 mg of active ingredient per 1 kg of body weight). For animals with renal insufficiency, it is recommended to accurately adjust the dose of the drug. Before use, the contents of the vial are thoroughly shaken until a homogeneous suspension is obtained. If necessary, it is possible to re-administer the drug after 48 hours. For the introduction of amoxicillin suspension, only dry sterile syringes and needles are used. If the administered dose of the drug exceeds 20 ml, it is recommended to administer it with several injections at different points. The injection site after the introduction of amoxicillin is recommended to be lightly massaged.

SIDE EFFECTS

Allergic reactions to amoxicillin are possible in animals, which resolve quickly after discontinuation of the drug. Intoxication due to an overdose is almost impossible. If allergic reactions occur, it is advisable to administer corticosteroids and adrenaline to animals.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Hypersensitivity to amoxicillin and other penicillins. Do not administer intravenously. Not allowed for rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and gerbils. Amoxicillin should not be mixed with other drugs in the same syringe, and should not be used simultaneously with bacteriostatic chemotherapeutic agents. The drug should not be prescribed for infections caused by bacteria that form penicillinase.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Animals may be slaughtered for meat 14 days after drug administration has been discontinued. The meat of animals forcedly slaughtered before the expiration of the specified period can be used for feeding fur-bearing animals or for the production of meat and bone meal. Milk from animals injected with amoxicillin suspension is allowed to be used for food purposes after 48 hours after the end of treatment.