ACTIVE HALF-LIFE
24 hours
CLASSIFICATION
Non-narcotic analgesic, Antipyretic, Antibiotic
DOSAGE
1000 mg/day
ACNE
No
WATER RETENTION
No
HBR
No
HEPATOTOXICITY
Low
AROMATIZATION
No
MANUFACTURER
GSK
WAREHOUSE
International Warehouse 2
SUBSTANCE
Amoxicillin Clavulanate
What is Amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin is a powerful antibiotic from the penicillin family, designed to combat bacterial infections effectively. It's widely prescribed for a range of bacterial conditions, including tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, gonorrhea, and infections affecting the ear, nose, throat, skin, or urinary tract.
This versatile antibiotic is also used in combination with clarithromycin (Biaxin) to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infections, often paired with a medication to reduce stomach acid.
Important Information
Be aware that amoxicillin may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Consult your doctor about alternative, non-hormonal birth control methods such as condoms or diaphragms to prevent pregnancy while on this medication. Always complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before the infection clears. Remember, amoxicillin is ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Never share this medication with others, even if they exhibit similar symptoms.
Antibiotics can sometimes lead to diarrhea, which may occur during treatment or within a few months after finishing the course. Should you experience watery or bloody diarrhea, stop using the medication and contact your doctor. Avoid anti-diarrheal medications unless advised by a healthcare provider.
Before Taking This Medicine
Do not take amoxicillin if you have a known allergy to any penicillin antibiotics, including ampicillin or ticarcillin. Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have:
- Asthma
- Liver or kidney disease
- Mononucleosis (mono)
- A history of antibiotic-related diarrhea
- Allergies to food or medications
Amoxicillin is usually considered safe for pregnant women. However, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while using this medication.
How Should I Take Amoxicillin?
Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking amoxicillin, adhering closely to the prescription label. Do not alter the dosage or duration of treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.
Take your medication at the same time every day. The Moxatag version should be taken with food or within one hour after a meal. Some forms of amoxicillin can be taken with or without food, so check your medication label for specific guidelines.
If you're using the liquid form, shake well before measuring a dose. Use the provided dosage syringe or measuring device for accuracy. You can take the liquid directly or mix it with water, milk, baby formula, fruit juice, or ginger ale?make sure to consume it all at once, as you shouldn't save any mixture for later.
For chewable tablets, be sure to chew them thoroughly before swallowing. Never crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets; always swallow them whole.
If you're on amoxicillin for a longer duration, your doctor may require regular blood tests to monitor liver and kidney functions.
When combining amoxicillin with clarithromycin and/or lansoprazole for stomach ulcer treatment, strictly follow all medication directions provided. Read the accompanying medication guide and consult your doctor if considering any dose adjustments.
Complete the entire course of this medication as prescribed. Missing doses can increase the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections. Remember, amoxicillin does not work against viral infections such as the flu or common cold.
This medication can affect certain medical tests, so inform any healthcare professional treating you that you are currently taking amoxicillin.
Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.