AMOXICILLIN

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic and treats a wide range of bacteria that may be resistant to other antibiotics. It is effective against infections in many different parts of the body.

CHEMICAL NAME

(2S,5r,6r)-6-{[(2r)-2-amino-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-acetyl]amino}-3,3-dimethyl-7oxo4-thia-1-azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane24-carboxylic acid

MEDICINES

This prescription antibiotic is present in medicines as amoxicillin trihydrate (for oral use) or amoxicillin sodium (intravenous). It is used to treat bacterial infections of the lungs and bronchi, ears, nose, throat, urinary tract, and skin. But while it is often prescribed for respiratory infections, a recent study of adults with an acute lower respiratory tract infection showed only small increases in benefits compared with patients receiving a placebo, and adverse effects rose as well. Amoxicillin is marketed under many trade names, including Amoxil and Moxatag.

HOW IT WORKS

Amoxicillin inhibits the synthesis of bacterial cell walls of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Without a cell wall, bacteria die.

SIDE EFFECTS

As with other members of the penicillin family, allergic reactions to this antibiotic are possible. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and rash. Among the more serious of the side effects are colitis, seizure, hives, and jaundice.

INTERACTIONS

Amoxil may interact with sulfa drugs and other antibiotics. You should never take two different antibiotics together because they may interfere with each other’s efficacy.

PROPER USE

For adults, teenagers, and children weighing 88 pounds or more, the dose is 250 to 500 mg every eight hours. For small children and infants, the dose must be determined by a physician. Check the label to see whether or not to take amoxicillin with food.