Amoxicillin: What You Need to Know

Amoxicillin is a common antibiotic used to treat many bacterial infections. Doctors prescribe it for ear infections, strep throat, sinusitis, bronchitis, and some skin infections. It belongs to the penicillin family and works by stopping bacteria from building cell walls. That makes it effective against many strains, but not all infections need antibiotics.

How do you take it? For adults, common doses range from 250 mg to 500 mg every 8 hours or 500–875 mg every 12 hours, depending on the infection. For children, dosing is based on weight and often given as a liquid or chewable tablet. Typical courses last five to ten days, though some conditions need shorter or longer treatment. Follow your prescriber's directions and finish the full course unless told otherwise.

What side effects should you watch for? The most common are nausea, diarrhea, and mild skin rash. Yeast infections and loose stools from gut changes can occur. A rare but serious complication is Clostridioides difficile–associated diarrhea, which causes severe, persistent diarrhea and needs medical care. If you have hives, facial swelling, trouble breathing, or a rapidly spreading rash, get emergency help.

Interactions and special situations matter. Amoxicillin can interact with blood thinners and certain immunosuppressants, and kidney disease may require dose changes. It rarely affects hormonal birth control, but if you are concerned use a backup method or ask your provider. Pregnant and breastfeeding people should discuss risks and benefits with their clinician before taking antibiotics.

When amoxicillin won't work

Amoxicillin won't treat viral illnesses like colds or the flu. Bacteria can become resistant, especially after repeated or inappropriate use. If symptoms don't start to improve within 48 to 72 hours, or they get worse, contact your prescriber. They might switch to a different antibiotic, order a culture, or recommend other tests.

Choosing alternatives and practical tips

If you are allergic or the bug is resistant, doctors may pick cephalexin, doxycycline, azithromycin, or Augmentin (amoxicillin plus clavulanate). Our site has guides comparing Amoxil, Augmentin, and Flagyl alternatives to help you understand options. Practical tips: take doses at the same time each day, store tablets at room temperature, keep liquid forms refrigerated only if the label says so, and discard unused liquid after the recommended time.

Missing a dose? Take it when you remember unless the next dose is near; don't double up. Keep all antibiotics out of reach of children. If you buy medicine online, choose licensed pharmacies and check reviews or verification seals. When in doubt, call a pharmacist or your healthcare provider — they can tailor advice to your illness and medical history.

Common questions people ask: Can you give amoxicillin with food? Yes — taking it with food can lower stomach upset but follow label. Can pets take human amoxicillin? Never give human meds to animals without a vet. Should you save leftover pills? Don’t. Leftovers encourage misuse and resistance. Ask your clinician if symptoms return after finishing treatment; a new test may be needed for diagnosis.