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, a powerful antibiotic from the penicillin family, is designed to combat bacterial infections effectively. It?s frequently prescribed for a variety of infections, including but not limited to tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, gonorrhea, and those affecting the ear, nose, throat, skin, or urinary tract.
This antibiotic can also be combined with clarithromycin (known as Biaxin) to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infections, often alongside a medication to lower stomach acid.
Important Information
Be aware that Amoxicillin may lessen the effectiveness of hormonal birth control methods. Discuss non-hormonal alternatives (such as condoms, diaphragms, or spermicides) with your healthcare provider to prevent unintended pregnancy while using this medication. Always complete the full course as directed, even if you begin to feel better before the infection has fully cleared. Remember, Amoxicillin is ineffective against viral infections, including the common cold and flu. Do not share this medication with anyone else, even if they show similar symptoms.
Antibiotics can sometimes lead to diarrhea, which may occur during treatment or within months afterward. If you experience watery or bloody diarrhea, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately. Avoid anti-diarrheal medications unless prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Before Taking This Medicine
Do not use Amoxicillin if you are allergic to any penicillin antibiotics, such as ampicillin, dicloxacillin, oxacillin, or ticarcillin. To ensure safety, inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- asthma
- liver or kidney disease
- mononucleosis (mono)
- a history of antibiotic-related diarrhea
- allergies to other medications or foods
Amoxicillin is generally safe for pregnant women, but keep your doctor informed if you are pregnant or planning to conceive while on this medication.
How Should I Take Amoxicillin?
Follow your doctor's instructions meticulously when taking Amoxicillin, adhering to the guidelines on your prescription label. Do not alter the dosage or duration without consulting your healthcare provider. Aim to take the medication at the same time each day.
The Moxatag formulation should be taken with food or within one hour after eating. Some other forms of Amoxicillin can be taken with or without food, so check your medication label for specific guidelines. For liquid versions, shake well before measuring, and use the provided dosing syringe or cup for accuracy. You can mix the liquid with water, milk, baby formula, fruit juice, or ginger ale, but consume it all at once?do not save any mixture for later.
If using chewable tablets, ensure they are thoroughly chewed before swallowing. Extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed.
If taking Amoxicillin over an extended period, regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor kidney and liver health. If combining with clarithromycin and/or lansoprazole for treating stomach ulcers, adhere strictly to the provided guidelines, and consult your doctor before making any changes to your regimen.
Complete the full prescribed course of Amoxicillin. Symptoms may improve before the infection is fully treated, and skipping doses could increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. Remember, this antibiotic is ineffective against viral illnesses like the flu or common cold.
Always keep this medication to yourself and do not share it with anyone, even if they exhibit similar symptoms. Inform any healthcare professional treating you that you are currently using Amoxicillin, as it may influence certain medical tests.
Store Amoxicillin at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.