Amoxicillin Information

Pronounced: a-MOX-i-sill-in
Generic name: Amoxicillin
Other brand names: Trimox, Wymox

Why is Amoxicillin prescribed?

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
• infections of the genital and urinary tract.

In combination with other drugs such as Prevacid and 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 Amoxicillin

If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking 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 Amoxicillin?

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

--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...

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 tablets at or below 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking 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 Prevacid and/or Biaxin for the treatment of ulcers, the most common side effects are...

• changes in taste sensation
• diarrhea
• headache.

Why should Amoxicillin not be prescribed?

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

Special warnings about Amoxicillin

If you have ever had asthma, hives, hay fever, or other allergies, consult with your doctor before taking Amoxicillin.

You should stop using Amoxicillin if you experience reactions such as bruising, fever, skin rash, itching, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and/or sores on the genitals. If these reactions occur, stop taking Amoxicillin unless your doctor advises you to continue.

For infections such as strep throat, it is important to take Amoxicillin for the entire amount of time your doctor has prescribed. Even if you feel better, you need to continue taking Amoxicillin. If you stop taking 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 Amoxicillin may cause a false positive Clinitest (urine glucose test) result to occur. You should consult with your doctor about using different tests while taking Amoxicillin.

Before taking Amoxicillin, tell your doctor if you have ever had asthma, colitis (inflammatory bowel disease), diabetes, or kidney or liver disease.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Amoxicillin

If 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 doctor before combining 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

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

Recommended dosage

Dosages will be determined by the type of infection being treated.

ADULTS

Ear, Nose, Throat, Skin, Genital, and Urinary Tract Infections
The usual dosage is 250 milligrams, taken every 8 hours.

Infections of the Lower Respiratory Tract
The usual dosage is 500 milligrams, taken every 8 hours.

Gonorrhea
The usual dosage is 3 grams in a single oral dose.

Gonococcal Infections Such as Acute, Uncomplicated Anogenital and Urethral Infections
3 grams as a single oral dose.

Ulcers
1 gram of Amoxicillin in combination with 500 milligrams of Biaxin and 30 milligrams of Prevacid taken every 12 hours for 14 days.

Alternatively, 1 gram of Amoxicillin can be taken with 30 milligrams of Prevacid every 8 hours for 14 days.

CHILDREN

Children weighing 44 pounds and over should follow the recommended adult dose schedule.

Children weighing under 44 pounds will have their dosage determined by their weight.

Dosage of Pediatric Drops:
Use the dropper provided with the medication to measure all doses.

All Infections Except Those of the Lower Respiratory Tract
Under 13 pounds:
0.75 milliliter every 8 hours.

13 to 15 pounds:
1 milliliter every 8 hours.

16 to 18 pounds:
1.25 milliliters every 8 hours.

Infections of the Lower Respiratory Tract
Under 13 pounds:
1.25 milliliters every 8 hours.

13 to 15 pounds:
1.75 milliliters every 8 hours.

16 to 18 pounds:
2.25 milliliters every 8 hours.

Children weighing more than 18 pounds should take the oral liquid. The required amount of suspension should be placed directly on the child's tongue for swallowing. It can also be added to formula, milk, fruit juice, water, ginger ale, or cold drinks. The preparation should be taken immediately. To be certain the child is getting the full dose of medication, make sure he or she drinks the entire preparation.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Amoxicillin overdose may include:

• diarrhea
• nausea
• stomach cramps
• vomiting