Amoxicillin

Aminopenicillin Antibiotic

Generic Name

Amoxicillin

Drug Class

Beta-lactam antibiotic (Penicillin group)

Indications

Upper and lower respiratory tract infections
Otitis media, sinusitis
Urinary tract infections
Skin and soft tissue infections
Helicobacter pylori eradication (combination therapy)

Dosage

Adults: 250–500 mg every 8 hours OR 500–875 mg every 12 hours
Children: 20–45 mg/kg/day in divided doses

Note: Dose and duration depend on infection severity.

Route of Administration

Oral

Mechanism of Action

Amoxicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.

Common Adverse Effects

Nausea, vomiting
Diarrhea
Skin rash

Serious Adverse Effects

Anaphylaxis
Severe hypersensitivity reactions
Clostridioides difficile–associated diarrhea

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to penicillins
History of severe beta-lactam allergy

Precautions

History of allergy or asthma
Renal impairment (dose adjustment may be needed)
Infectious mononucleosis (rash risk)

Drug Interactions

Oral contraceptives – reduced effectiveness
Allopurinol – increased risk of rash
Warfarin – increased anticoagulant effect

Pregnancy & Lactation

Generally safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use as prescribed.

Patient Counseling

Complete the full prescribed course
Can be taken with or without food
Report rash or allergic symptoms immediately
Do not share antibiotics with others