Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic from the penicillin group. It is used to treat a range of bacterial infections, such as chest infections including pneumonia, dental abscesses and ear infections [1].

It is available only on prescription and usually comes as capsules or a liquid to swallow, and sometimes as an injection given in hospital [1]. Antibiotics do not work against infections caused by viruses.

• Amoxicillin is usually taken as a course over several days, and people often start to feel better within a few days [1].
• It is important to finish the whole course, even if you feel better, so the infection is fully treated [1].
• The most common side effects are feeling sick and diarrhoea [1].
• It is generally fine to drink alcohol in moderation while taking amoxicillin [1].

Amoxicillin can be taken by most adults and children, but it is not suitable for everyone [1]. It must not be taken by anyone who has had an allergic reaction to amoxicillin or other penicillins in the past [1]. Tell your prescriber if you have kidney problems or any history of reactions to antibiotics before starting it [1]. Your prescriber will decide whether it is right for you.

Take amoxicillin exactly as your prescriber tells you and as set out on the label — the amount and how often you take it depend on the infection and the person [1]. It is usually spread evenly through the day, and can be taken with or without food [1]. If you miss a dose, follow the advice in the leaflet, and never take a double dose to catch up [1].

Common side effects include feeling or being sick and diarrhoea, and some people develop thrush after taking antibiotics [1]. More serious reactions are uncommon; stop taking it and get medical help straight away if you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as a rash, swelling or difficulty breathing [1].

Amoxicillin can affect, or be affected by, some other medicines — for example certain other antibiotics, the gout medicine allopurinol, methotrexate and blood thinners such as warfarin [1]. Tell your prescriber or pharmacist about everything you take, including anything bought without a prescription or any herbal remedies, before starting it [1].

You can report a suspected side effect from amoxicillin to the MHRA through the Yellow Card scheme, which helps monitor the safety of medicines in the UK [2]. Get medical help for any serious reaction as well as reporting it.