Amoxicillin

Brand name:
Amoxil / Amoxicillin
Pronounced: a-MOX-il
Generic name: Amoxicillin
Other brand name: Trimox
Why is Amoxil / Amoxicillin prescribed?

Amoxil / Amoxicillin, an antibiotic, is used to treat a wide variety of infections, including: gonorrhea, middle ear infections, skin infections, upper and lower respiratory tract infections, and infections of the genital and urinary tract. In combination with other drugs such as Prilosec, Prevacid, and/or Biaxin, it is also used to treat duodenal ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria (ulcers in the wall of the small intestine near the exit from the stomach).
Most important fact about Amoxil / Amoxicillin

If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your local doctor before taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin. There is a possibility that you are allergic to both types of medication; and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take the drug and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
How should you take Amoxil / Amoxicillin?

Amoxil / Amoxicillin can be taken with or without food. If you are using Amoxil / Amoxicillin suspension, shake it well before using.

Your local doctor will only prescribe Amoxil / Amoxicillin to treat a bacterial infection. Amoxil / Amoxicillin will not cure a viral infection such as the common cold. It's important to take all of your medication as instructed by your local doctor, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not finishing the complete dosage of Amoxil / Amoxicillin may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances for bacterial resistance to Amoxil / Amoxicillin and similar antibiotics.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, and you take 2 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 5 to 6 hours later. If you take 3 or more doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 2 to 4 hours later. Then go back to your regular schedule.

--Storage instructions...

Amoxil / Amoxicillin suspension and pediatric drops should be stored in a tightly closed bottle. Discard any unused medication after 14 days. Refrigeration is preferable.

Store capsules at or below 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Store chewable tablets and tablets at or below 77 degrees Fahrenheit in a tightly closed container.
Amoxil / Amoxicillin side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your local doctor as soon as possible. Only your local doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin.

* Side effects may include:
Agitation, anemia, anxiety, changes in behavior, colitis, confusion, convulsions, diarrhea, dizziness, hives, hyperactivity, insomnia, liver problems and jaundice, nausea, peeling skin, rash, tooth discoloration in children, vomiting

When used in combination with Prilosec, Prevacid, and/or Biaxin for the treatment of ulcers, the most common side effects are changes in taste sensation, diarrhea, and headache.
Why should Amoxil / Amoxicillin not be prescribed?

You should not use Amoxil / Amoxicillin if you are allergic to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics (for example, Ceclor).
Special warnings about Amoxil / Amoxicillin

If you have ever had asthma, hives, hay fever, or other allergies, consult with your local doctor before taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin.ctions occur, stop taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin unless your local doctor advises you to continue.

For infections such as strep throat, it is important to take Amoxil / Amoxicillin for the entire amount of time your local doctor has prescribed. Even if you feel better, you need to continue taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin. If you stop taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin before your treatment time is complete, you may get other infections, such as glomerulonephritis (a kidney infection) or rheumatic fever.

If you are diabetic, be aware that Amoxil / Amoxicillin may cause a false positive Clinitest (urine glucose test) result to occur. You should consult with your local doctor about using different tests while taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin.Before taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin, tell your local doctor if you have ever had asthma, colitis (inflammatory bowel disease), diabetes, or kidney or liver disease.The chewable tablet form of Amoxil / Amoxicillin contains phenylalanine. If you or your child has the hereditary disease phenylketonuria, this form of Amoxil / Amoxicillin should not be used.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Amoxil / Amoxicillin

If Amoxil / Amoxicillin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your local doctor before combining Amoxil / Amoxicillin with the following:

Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin)
Erythromycin (E.E.S., PCE, others)
Oral contraceptives
Probenecid
Tetracycline (Achromycin V, others)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Amoxil / Amoxicillin should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your local doctor immediately. Since Amoxil / Amoxicillin may appear in breast milk, you should consult your local doctor if you plan to breastfeed your baby.
Recommended dosage for Amoxil / Amoxicillin

Dosages will be determined by the type of infection being treated.Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

* Symptoms of Amoxil / Amoxicillin overdose may include:
Diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting