Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin interferes with the ability of bacteria to build and maintain their cell walls. By binding to specific proteins involved in cell-wall construction, it weakens the wall so that the bacterium cannot survive and multiply, leading to its death. Because human cells do not have this type of cell wall, the medicine targets bacteria selectively. It is bactericidal, meaning it kills susceptible bacteria rather than simply stopping their growth.

Always take amoxicillin exactly as prescribed and as described in the patient information leaflet. It is available as capsules, tablets and an oral liquid, and can usually be taken with or without food. Space the doses evenly through the day as directed. It is very important to complete the entire course, even if you feel better before it is finished, because stopping early can allow the infection to return and contributes to antibiotic resistance.

Common (usually mild and temporary):

• Nausea or feeling sick
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach upset or indigestion
• Skin rash
• Headache
• Thrush (fungal infection) after prolonged use

• Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to penicillins or other antibiotics, as a penicillin allergy can be serious.
• Inform your doctor of any kidney problems, glandular fever, or other long-term conditions before starting.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines, including the contraceptive pill, allopurinol and anticoagulants.
• If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, discuss this with your doctor before taking it.
• Only use amoxicillin for the infection it was prescribed for; never share it or save leftovers for future illnesses.
• Overuse and misuse of antibiotics drive antibiotic resistance, so it should be used only when a doctor judges it appropriate.
• Return any unused or expired medicine to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Store in the original packaging below 25°C, away from heat, light and moisture, out of the sight and reach of children. Oral liquid is usually kept only a short time after mixing and may need refrigeration — follow the label. Do not use after the expiry date.