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Amoxicillin

Antibiotic

Brand names:

Moxatag®, Amoxil®

Other names:

p-Hydroxyampicillin

Often used for:

Infections

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What is amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic. It works to kill bacteria that cause infections. Amoxicillin is in the penicillin family of antibiotics. Amoxicillin comes in different forms. Follow dosing instructions carefully.

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May be taken as a chewable tablet by mouth

 
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May be taken as a capsule by mouth

 
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May be taken as a liquid by mouth

 
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Possible side effects

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck

Not all patients who take amoxicillin will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

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Tips for families

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Let a doctor know if the patient has severe diarrhea while on this medicine.
  • While taking this medicine, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Follow the care team’s instructions for appropriate fluid intake.
  • Amoxicillin may affect some lab tests, especially in patients with high blood sugar (diabetes). Talk to a doctor or pharmacist about how to use and read urine glucose test strips.
  • Amoxicillin may affect the way other medicines work. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, especially if the patient is taking methotrexate or probenecid.
  • Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Amoxicillin may make birth control pills and other hormone-based birth control methods less effective. Sexually active patients should use another form of birth control, like condoms, to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine.
  • Finish all doses of the medicine as instructed by a doctor or pharmacist.

Amoxicillin at home:

  • Take the medicine at the same time each day.
  • Extended-release tablets: Swallow whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. Take extended-release tablets within 1 hour after a meal.
  • Other forms of amoxicillin can be taken with or without food. Take with food if stomach upset occurs.
  • Liquid medicine: Shake well, and use the measuring device that comes with the medicine. The liquid medicine may be mixed with milk, juice, water, or other cold drink. Take immediately.
  • Chew or crush chewable tablets before swallowing.
  • Give a missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
  • Store amoxicillin at room temperature.
  • Liquid amoxicillin may be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Throw away remaining medicine after 14 days.
  • Do not use the medicine past the expiration date.
  • Follow instructions for safe storage and disposal.

Learn more about amoxicillin

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.