Amoxicillin

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Amoxicillin is available in various oral dosage forms, including capsules, tablets, chewable tablets, and suspensions.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Amoxicillin can be taken by both adults and children.

Contraindications

• Amoxicillin is contraindicated for individuals who have a known allergy to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
• Patients with mononucleosis (an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus) are advised not to take Amoxicillin, due to an increased risk of skin rashes.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Amoxicillin may interact with other antibiotics (like tetracycline and doxycycline), anticoagulants (such as warfarin and aspirin), and uricosuric agents (like probenecid and benzbromarone).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal discomfort. If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention should be sought.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally resolve once the medicine is discontinued. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea or stomach discomfort, try taking the medicine with or after meals.
• For mild diarrhoea, ensure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Amoxicillin does not generally affect the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, if you experience side effects such as dizziness, refrain from driving or operating machines until you feel well again.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Amoxicillin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and lactation. However, it should only be taken under the guidance of a doctor, who will consider the potential benefits and risks.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution must be exercised while administering Amoxicillin to individuals with kidney disease, as the dosage may need adjustment.
• It should also be used with caution in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Proper rest and nutrition are essential for recovery from any bacterial infection. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet for a boost of vitamins and minerals.
• Abstain from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption while recovering from an infection. These substances can weaken your immune system and prolong recovery time.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions