UsesIt is used to treat bacterial infections caused by susceptible microorganisms It prevents the bacterial growth and is used in the treatment of a number of infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, gonorrhea, and infections of the ears, nose, throat, urinary tract, and skin
Mechanism of Action- Acts by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls
- It inhibits cross-linkage between the linear peptidoglycan polymer chains that make up a major component of the cell walls of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
DosageAdult- The recommended dose range is 0.25 to 3gm Child- The recommended dose is 25 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours
Side EffectsFungal infections, severe allergic reactions, joint pain, or general ill feeling, severe tingling, sleeplessness, numbness and pain Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, antibiotic-associated colitis, black hairy tongue Anaphylactic shock, redness of skin, skin inflammation, hives, inflammation of blood vessels, itching, severe blistering and peeling Jaundice and liver inflammation Crystals in urine, dark colored urine and vaginal itching or discharge Anemia, decrease in white blood cells, platelets, increase in eosinophils and bruising Reversible hyperactivity, agitation, anxiety, sleeplessness, confusion, convulsions, behavioral changes and dizziness Tooth discoloration, hear burn, white patches or sores inside mouth or on lips, easy bruising and bleeding
Warnings/PrecautionsCaution should be exercised in patients with history of kidney disease, allergies, asthma, hay fever, hives, any allergy to any other penicillin antibiotic/cephalosporins, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication Take full course of treatment Avoid long-term use of this medication; otherwise it may cause secondary infection Patient may experience stomach pain, severe diarrhea, blood in stool; if it so consult with your doctor Monitor liver function, kidney function and complete blood cell counts regularly while taking this medication Amoxicillin can make birth control pills less effective, therefore using a non-hormone method of birth control is recommended while on amoxicillin