ACTIVE HALF-LIFE
24 hours
CLASSIFICATION
Non-narcotic analgesic, Antipyretic, Antibiotic
DOSAGE
625 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 in the penicillin family, specifically designed to combat bacterial infections. It's commonly prescribed for a range of ailments, including tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, gonorrhea, and various infections of the ear, nose, throat, skin, and urinary tract.
In certain situations, amoxicillin is used in combination with another antibiotic, clarithromycin (Biaxin), to effectively treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection. This duo might also be paired with a medication that reduces stomach acid for enhanced efficacy.
Important Information
Be aware that amoxicillin can diminish the effectiveness of birth control pills. It's essential to discuss alternative non-hormonal contraceptive options (like condoms or diaphragms) with your doctor while undergoing treatment. Always complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better before the infection is completely resolved. Note that amoxicillin is ineffective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. Sharing this medication with others, even those with similar symptoms, is strongly discouraged.
Use of antibiotics like amoxicillin may result in diarrhea, which can occur during treatment or even months afterward, possibly signaling a new infection. Should you experience severe or bloody diarrhea, discontinue amoxicillin and contact your healthcare provider. Avoid anti-diarrheal medications unless specifically advised by your doctor.
Before Taking This Medicine
Do not take amoxicillin if you have a known allergy to any penicillin antibiotics, including ampicillin, dicloxacillin, oxacillin, penicillin, or ticarcillin.
To determine if amoxicillin is suitable for you, inform your healthcare provider if you have:
- Asthma
- Liver or kidney disease
- Mononucleosis (often called "mono")
- A history of antibiotic-related diarrhea
- Food or drug allergies
While amoxicillin is generally not expected to harm an unborn child, it?s vital to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive during treatment.
How Should I Take Amoxicillin?
Follow your physician's directions precisely when taking amoxicillin. Stick to all instructions on your prescription label and never adjust the dosage or frequency without consulting your doctor.
For best results, take this medication consistently at the same time every day. The Moxatag brand should be taken with food or within one hour after a meal. Other formulations may be taken with or without food; check your medicine label for specific guidance.
If you are using liquid amoxicillin, shake it thoroughly before measuring the dose according to the label instructions. Utilize the provided dosing syringe or a special measuring device for accuracy. The liquid can be taken directly or mixed with water, milk, baby formula, fruit juice, or ginger ale. Consume the entire mixture promptly and do not save any for later.
Chewable tablets must be fully chewed before swallowing. Do not crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets; swallow them whole.
If you are undergoing long-term amoxicillin therapy, you may require regular blood tests and monitoring for kidney and liver function.
For those using amoxicillin with clarithromycin and/or lansoprazole for ulcer treatment, adhere strictly to all medication instructions. Read the provided medication guide or patient instructions carefully and consult your doctor before adjusting your dosage or schedule.
Always complete the full prescribed treatment duration. Missing doses can increase the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections. Remember, amoxicillin is ineffective against viral infections like the flu or common cold.
Never share this medication with anyone else, even if they exhibit similar symptoms.
This medication may yield unusual results in certain medical tests, so inform any healthcare provider that you are taking amoxicillin.
Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.