What Is Amoxicillin?

If you have some kind of bacterial infection, such as a dental abscess, ear infections, stomach ulcer or a chest infection like pneumonia, it’s possible that you’ll be prescribed amoxicillin, a form of penicillin antibiotic.

The treatment is only available on prescription and available in either a liquid or capsule, as well as injection (although this is typically only administered upon admission to hospital).

How does amoxicillin work?

As an antibiotic, amoxicillin works by preventing the synthesis of bacterial cell wall mucopeptides, crystal structures made up of amino acids that compose the cell wall. This inhibition weakens and destroys the bacterial cell walls so as to kill the bacteria, clearing the infection.

It’s particularly active against the bacteria that causes throat, nose and ear infections, as well as potentially being effective against infections in the lower respiratory tract, skin or genitourinary skin.

The medication has also been found to be successful in treating helicobacter pylori bacteria, which is associated with stomach ulcers, when used alongside other medication such as lansoprazole and clarithromycin, reducing the risk of ulcer recurrence in those with relevant infections.

Who can take amoxicillin?

Most people, adults and children alike, can take amoxicillin but it may be unsuitable for you if:

– You’ve ever had an allergic reaction to medication before, including both amoxicillin and penicillin

– You have liver or kidney problems

– You’re due to have blood or urine tests (as taking amoxicillin can affect test results in some cases)

– You have glandular fever (as taking amoxicillin can cause a rash in this instance)

– You have recently had or about to have any vaccinations

How do you take amoxicillin?

A typical dose of amoxicillin in capsule form is between 250mg and 500mg, taken three times a day. Children may be prescribed a lower dose.

If taken in liquid form, amoxicillin is available in two strengths, either 125mg in 5ml or 250mg in 5ml.

To take amoxicillin, space the doses out evenly, once in the morning, once in the afternoon and once before bed. It can be taken either before or after food.

With the capsules, make sure you swallow them whole with a glass of water. Do not break or chew them.

Continue taking amoxicillin until you’ve finished the course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve. If you finish the course of treatment early, the infection may return.

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you can. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, just skip the one you missed and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses simultaneously to make up for the one you missed.

If your symptoms don’t improve after taking the medication for three to five days, or if you start feeling worse, make sure you seek further medical advice.

Are there any side-effects to taking amoxicillin?

As with any medication, there is a risk of side-effects when taking this treatment. They include:

– Skin rash

– Nausea

– Diarrhoea

These are usually mild and should resolve themselves relatively quickly.

However, there are some more serious side-effects that, although rare, are worth keeping in mind:

– Diarrhoea containing blood or mucus/severe diarrhoea

– Pale faeces/dark pee

– Yellow skin/yellow whites of the eyes

– Atypical bruising

– Changes in skin colour

– Skin rash with circular red patches and a high temperature

– Joint/muscle pain starting after around two days of taking the drug

If you experience any of these, stop taking the medication and seek medical assistance immediately. It’s also possible that some of these more serious side-effects will manifest up to two months after finishing your course of treatment.

Can you drink alcohol while taking amoxicillin?

Yes, it is possible to drink alcohol while taking this medication and it won’t stop it from working – but remember that moderation is key. Medical professionals typically recommend avoiding alcohol when ill to give your body the best chance of fighting the infection.

Does amoxicillin affect the contraceptive pill?

Rest assured that amoxicillin won’t stop any birth control pill from working. However, if the medication makes you sick or you experience severe watery diarrhoea, or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, note that your birth control may not protect you against pregnancy.

Order treatments online today

If you’re looking for antibiotics to help ease the pain associated with tooth infections and dental abscesses, the My Chemist Plus team of licensed prescribers can help you find the right medication and protect your oral health.

Start your online consultation to access the medication you need. If you have any further questions or need any further advice, give the team a call.