Amoxycillin
Uses of Amoxycillin
Amoxycillin is commonly used to treat severe bacterial infections.
How Amoxycillin Works
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic which is able to bind to a protein that produces peptidoglycan. This peptidoglycan plays a part in building up the wall of the bacteria cell. Amoxicillin inhibits the production of peptidoglycan, in turn killing the bacterial cells.
Side Effects of Amoxycillin
Vomiting, Nausea, Diarrhea, Rashes, Skin itch, Raised skin lesions, Yellowing of the skin
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Amoxycillin should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Amoxycillin such as additional doses may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Safe
It is safe to consume alcohol with Amoxycillin.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Amoxycillin has shown no risk to the foetus in animal studies but no well-controlled studies have been done on humans to show any problems that arise especially in the 1st trimester. However, it is still better to consult your doctor first before consuming Amoxycillin.
Driving Generally Safe
Amoxycillin usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
Amoxycillin should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Amoxycillin and monitoring of liver enzymes may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Limited Data
Amoxycillin is probably safe to use during lactation. Limited human data suggests that Amoxycillin does excrete in breast milk. It may cause side effects such as nausea or Diarrhea in the baby thus the need to discontinue breastfeeding. However, please consult your doctor to evaluate the benefits over the risks of taking Amoxycillin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
