What is it used for?
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, including infections of the ears, nose, throat, chest, urinary tract, skin and teeth. It does not work against viral infections such as colds or flu.
How does it work?
It kills susceptible bacteria by preventing them from building their protective cell wall.
How to take/use it
Take it exactly as prescribed by the doctor, at evenly spaced times if instructed, and complete the prescribed course even if feeling better. It may usually be taken with or without food. Do not share leftover antibiotics or use them for another illness.
Common side effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach discomfort and skin rash may occur.
Precautions
Do not take it if there has been a serious allergy to amoxicillin, penicillin or other similar antibiotics. Seek medical help for breathing difficulty, swelling, severe rash or persistent/severe diarrhoea. Tell the doctor about kidney problems, previous antibiotic-related diarrhoea, glandular fever (mononucleosis), pregnancy or breastfeeding, and all other medicines being used.
