Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as some chest, ear, sinus, urinary, or skin infections, when your prescriber judges it appropriate. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections like the common cold or flu.
This medicine is part of the Antibiotics (selected) category.
Generic name: amoxicillin
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as some chest, ear, sinus, urinary, or skin infections, when your prescriber judges it appropriate.
How long does it take to work?
Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review.
What are common side effects?
Common effects include nausea, diarrhoea, and skin rash.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Amoxicillin with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
More about what Amoxicillin is used for
Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as some chest, ear, sinus, urinary, or skin infections, when your prescriber judges it appropriate.
Antibiotics do not treat viral infections like the common cold or flu.
How does Amoxicillin work, and how long does it take to work?
Amoxicillin interferes with bacterial cell walls, helping the body clear the infection. It is important to take it at the intervals prescribed to keep effective levels in the body.
Stopping too early can contribute to incomplete treatment; always follow the prescriber’s instructions unless they tell you to stop (for example, due to a reaction).
How and when should you take Amoxicillin?
Dose and duration depend on age, weight, infection type, and kidney function. It is often taken two or three times a day, with or without food — follow your label.
Liquid formulations should be shaken if instructed, and measured with the supplied spoon or syringe.
What are the common side effects of Amoxicillin?
Common effects include nausea, diarrhoea, and skin rash. Mild diarrhoea may settle; severe or bloody diarrhoea needs prompt medical advice.
A rash does not always mean allergy, but any rash during antibiotics should be reported — especially if accompanied by itching, swelling, or breathing problems.
Serious side effects of Amoxicillin — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help for signs of serious allergy (swelling, wheeze, collapse), severe skin blistering, or persistent high fever with rash.
Rarely, antibiotic-associated colitis causes severe diarrhoea — contact a clinician if diarrhoea is severe or prolonged.
What if you miss a dose of Amoxicillin?
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is nearly time for the next one. Space remaining doses evenly; do not double up unless your prescriber says so.
Your pharmacist can help if you are unsure how to catch up.
Who should not take Amoxicillin?
People with true penicillin allergy should not take amoxicillin. Your prescriber will choose an alternative.
Kidney dose adjustment may be needed; always share your full medical history and other medicines.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Amoxicillin? — other interactions
Amoxicillin can interact with Warfarin (monitoring may be needed), Methotrexate, and some other drugs. The contraceptive pill’s reliability may be reduced if you vomit severely or have prolonged diarrhoea — your pharmacist can advise.
Always mention all medicines and supplements when antibiotics are prescribed.
Amoxicillin in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Amoxicillin is often used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when a bacterial infection needs treatment.
Your prescriber will choose an antibiotic that is appropriate for you and the infection.
Blood tests and monitoring on Amoxicillin
Routine monitoring is not always needed for short courses. Longer or complex treatment may include blood tests if your clinician advises.
If you take Warfarin, INR checks may be arranged during and after antibiotics.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Amoxicillin?
If you cannot take penicillins, your prescriber may choose a different antibiotic class based on infection type and local guidance.
Never share antibiotics or use leftovers from a previous course.
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Frequently asked questions about Amoxicillin
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Amoxicillin used for?
- Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as some chest, ear, sinus, urinary, or skin infections, when your prescriber judges it appropriate. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections like the common cold or flu.
- How long does Amoxicillin take to work?
- Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Amoxicillin with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Amoxicillin with Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
- What are the side effects of Amoxicillin?
- Common effects include nausea, diarrhoea, and skin rash. Mild diarrhoea may settle; severe or bloody diarrhoea needs prompt medical advice. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Can I stop amoxicillin when I feel better?
- Unless your prescriber tells you to stop early, it is usually important to complete the prescribed course to reduce the risk of incomplete treatment. If side effects concern you, contact your GP or pharmacist for advice.
- What if I am allergic to penicillin?
- Tell every healthcare professional. Amoxicillin is a penicillin and should not be given if you have a documented allergy; alternatives exist.
Need personalised advice?
Your local pharmacist or GP surgery can help with questions about your medicines, side effects, and alternatives that may be suitable for you.
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