Amoxicillin

What is amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is a widely used antibiotic belonging to the penicillin family, sometimes known by its brand name Respillin. It is a prescription-only medication[1]. 

How does amoxicillin work?

It is effective against a variety of bacterial infections by slowing the production of bacterial cell walls, which ultimately leads to the killing of the bacteria[1][2]. 

What is amoxicillin used for?

Amoxicillin is prescribed to treat numerous bacterial infections, including: 

• Ear, nose, and throat infections (e.g., tonsillitis, pharyngitis) 

• Chest infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia) 

• Urinary tract infections 

• Skin and soft tissue infections 

• Dental abscesses 

• Gastrointestinal infections (e.g., Helicobacter pylori-related stomach ulcers)[1][3]. 

Who can take amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin can be taken by most people, including children and pregnant women, but it should be avoided by those who: 

• Are allergic to amoxicillin, penicillin, or cephalosporins 

• Have a history of severe allergic reactions to antibiotics 

• Have liver or kidney problems 

• Have infectious mononucleosis (due to risk of rash)[1][3][6]. 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have before starting amoxicillin, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[5]. 

How do you take amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is typically taken orally, either as a capsule, tablet, chewable tablet, or liquid suspension. It can be taken before or after food, up to 3 times a day depending on the prescription[1][3][7]. 

What is the typical dosage of amoxicillin?

Dosage varies based on the type and severity of the infection. 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.[1] 

What do you do if you forget to take amoxicillin?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses[11][12]. 

What do you do if you take too much amoxicillin?

Taking an extra dose of amoxicillin is unlikely to affect you or your child, but you should contact your doctor or pharmacist if you’re concerned. 

You should contact 111 for advice immediately if you have taken more than your prescribed amoxicillin dose and have symptoms like: 

• Stomach pain or vomiting 

• Blood in your urine 

• Difficulty peeing or producing less urine than normal 

If you need to go to A&E, do not drive. Ask someone to take you or call 999 for an ambulance. Make sure you bring the amoxicillin packet or leaflet with you, alongside any remaining medicine or other medicines you take[9][10]. 

What are the side effects of amoxicillin?

The most common side effects of amoxicillin will occur in more than 1 in 10 people. These include: 

• Nausea 

• Vomiting 

• Diarrhoea 

• Skin rash 

• Yeast infections (e.g., vulvovaginal candidiasis)[1][3][4]. 

Serious side effects occur in less than 1 in 1,000 people up to 2 months after finishing amoxicillin and can include:  

• Diarrhoea (sometimes with stomach cramps) containing blood or severe diarrhoea lasting more than 4 days 

• Pale poo and dark pee, and the yellowing of the whites of your eyes as a sign of liver issues 

• Bruising or changes in skin colour 

• Joint or muscle pain starting two days after taking the medicine 

• A skin rash with circular patches[1][4][5]. 

Around 1 in 15 people have an allergic reaction to amoxicillin. In most cases, it’s mild and presents as a skin rash, which you can use antihistamines for. In rare cases, it can cause severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). 

You should call 999 immediately if: 

• Your lips, mouth, throat, or tongue swell up 

• You’re experiencing breathing difficulties 

• Your throat feels tight or struggling to swallow 

• Your skin, tongue, or lips turn blue, grey, or pale 

• You become confused, drowsy, or dizzy 

• Someone faints and can’t be woken 

• A child is limp, floppy, or not responding as normal 

• There’s a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered, or peeling

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional.

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice[5]. 

Medicines you can and can't take with amoxicillin

Amoxicillin can interact with several medications, including: 

• Warfarin, a blood clot medicine 

• Allopurinol or probenecid for gout 

• Methotrexate, for arthritis and psoriasis 

• Certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, which can interfere with its effectiveness)[13][14]. 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[5]. 

Frequently asked questions about amoxicillin

How long does it take for amoxicillin to work? 

For most infections, it should take a couple of days to work. You should complete your prescribed course of amoxicillin, even if you’re feeling better, to stop the infection returning[1]. 

What if I’m not getting better after a few days taking amoxicillin? 

If you’re not seeing improvements after 3 days, you should tell your doctor or pharmacist so they can review your prescription. You should also tell them if you start to feel worse[1]. 

Does amoxicillin cause thrush? 

Some people may get a fungal infection called thrush after taking a course of antibiotics, like amoxicillin, but it’s not exclusive to this medication. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you think you may have thrush. 

Does amoxicillin affect contraception? 

No, it does not stop any type of contraception from working. 

However, if you vomit due to taking amoxicillin, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. If this happens, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist for advice. 

Does amoxicillin affect fertility? 

There’s no evidence that amoxicillin impacts fertility in either men or women. 

Can you drink alcohol while taking amoxicillin? 

It's generally safe, but alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like stomach upset[15]. 

Can I drive or ride a bike while taking amoxicillin? 

Yes, it should not affect your ability to drive a car or ride a bike. 

Does amoxicillin expire? 

Yes, it should not be used past its expiration date[16]. 

Do I need to avoid any food or drink, including alcohol, while taking amoxicillin? 

You can eat and drink, including alcohol, normally with amoxicillin.

For the official NHS guide to amoxicillin, visit their website.