Amoxicillin

Common Brands Amoxil (brand no longer available)
Drug Class
Penicillin antibiotic
Controlled Substance Classification
Not a controlled medication
Generic Status
Lower-cost generic available
Availability
Prescription only
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Daisy Chau, PharmD
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Medically reviewed by Daisy Chau, PharmD last update on 20/12/2023

Overview

Amoxicillin, is a widely used antibiotic that belongs to the class of drugs known as penicillins. It is an essential medication in the field of modern medicine, known for its effectiveness in treating a wide range of bacterial infections. 

Amoxicillin is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and oral suspension. The dosage and duration of treatment with amoxicillin depend on the specific infection being treated and the patient’s age and medical condition. It is essential to take the medication exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional, even if you start feeling better before completing the full course of treatment.

 Important Key Factors

  • You’ll start to feel better in a few days for the majority of infections.
  • The two most typical adverse effects of amoxicillin are diarrhea and nausea.
  • Your teeth may become stained by liquid amoxicillin. Brushing gets rid of this, and it doesn’t last.
  • Alcohol is acceptable to consume while taking amoxicillin.
  • Amoxicillin use occasionally results in thrush.

How Does Amoxicillin Work?

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial infections. Here’s how amoxicillin works in a simplified paragraph:

Bacteria have cell walls that protect them from their environment, and amoxicillin targets these walls. Without a properly formed cell wall, the bacteria become weakened and more susceptible to the body’s immune system. In addition, amoxicillin also disrupts the enzymes that help bacteria replicate and multiply, further hindering their ability to spread and cause infection. 

As a result, the body’s immune system can more effectively fight off the weakened bacteria, helping to clear the infection. It’s important to note that amoxicillin is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections but not against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

DRUG STATUS

Availability

Prescription only

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy