Explanation

Amoxicillin is a medicine that helps your body to fight infections. It is used to fight all sorts of infections all around your body, like ear infections and chest infections, as well as many others.

Amoxicillin is a type of medicine called an antibiotic.

How does it work?

Amoxicillin works by stopping bacteria from multiplying. This gives your immune system help to fight off infections caused by bacteria.

What does it look like?

Amoxicillin comes as a small white tablet, or as capsules, which you swallow with a glass of water. It also comes as a liquid for very young children, or if you find it hard to swallow tablets.

You should take it before a meal or at the start of one.

When do I have to take it?

Your doctor will tell you when to take your amoxicillin. You will most likely need to take it two or three times a day, spread out evenly over the day. You must make sure that you leave at least 4 hours between each dose you take, though.

But what if I don't feel like taking it?

Taking your amoxicillin is important, as it will help you to fight off the infection.

It's important to take all of the amoxicillin that your doctor gives you. Don't stop taking it before it's all gone, even if you feel better, because if you do some bacteria may survive and the infection could come back.

What should I do if I forget to take it?

If you forget to take your amoxicillin, take it as soon as you remember. Then remember to wait 4 hours before you take the next dose.

Don't take twice as much next time to catch up. Remember the three Ds: Don't Double Dose!

How much should I take?

Your doctor will tell you how much amoxicillin to take. This depends on how serious your infection is, and how old you are.

What are the most likely side effects I might get?

The side effects you are most likely to get while taking amoxicillin are:

A skin rash

Feeling sick

Diarrhoea (runny poo)

What other side effects might I get?

Some other side effects you might get from amoxicillin include:

Being sick

Thrush

Problems with your kidney

Seizures

Feeling dizzy

Feeling like you need to move around a lot, or having problems paying attention

Cloudy wee

Stained teeth - this usually goes away after brushing

Feeling tired, short of breath and becoming pale - this is called anaemia

Your blood might take longer to clot, which will make you bleed longer if you cut or graze yourself

Are there any other side effects you haven't mentioned?

Some much less likely side effects that you could get from taking amoxicillin include:

An allergic reaction. Signs of this include a skin rash, a swollen face, lips or tongue and problems breathing

Blisters and bumps on your skin

Swollen glands under your arms

Painful joints

Fever and headache

Dark wee

Pale poo

Yellowing skin

If you notice any of these side effects, stop taking your amoxicillin straight away and see your doctor.

Is it safe for me to be taking it?

Do not take your amoxicillin if you know you have:

glandular fever - an illness that gives you a fever and swollen glands

If you know you have a problem with your kidneys

If you are not weeing regularly

Some people are allergic to amoxicillin. If you know you are allergic to amoxicillin, or any other type of antibiotics, don't take it and tell your doctor!

Is it okay for me to take amoxicillin if I am taking other medicine?

You should tell your doctor about any other medicines that you are taking, or have taken recently, including herbal medicines.

It is especially important to mention if you are taking:

Medicines that help stop your blood clotting

Medicines used to treat an illness called gout, which causes painful and swollen joints.

Do I need to know anything else about it?

If you are having any blood tests done, or tests of your wee, make sure you tell your doctor or nurse that you are taking amoxicillin.

What if I have any more questions?

If you have any other questions, you can ask your doctor, or chat to other people about amoxicillin in the Medikidz forums and virtual world, Mediland.