Med Minute: Amoxicillin
In this Med Minute guide, we’re covering amoxicillin, a commonly prescribed antibiotic used to treat and prevent various bacterial infections. It works by stopping bacteria from growing and replicating, often requiring a 7 to 10-day course for full effectiveness. Keep reading for quick facts on uses, dosing, side effects, and tips for giving it to your child!
What's it commonly used for?
- Treating bacterial infections: ear infections, pneumonia, skin infections, urinary tract infections, strep throat, sinus infections, Lyme disease
- Preventing bacterial infections (prophylaxis): dental procedures, urinary tract infections, sickle cell disease
How does it work?
- It kills bacteria by preventing bacteria from building cell walls and preventing bacterial cells from replicating.
- Amoxicillin is a “time-dependent killer” that stops bacterial infections slowly, so therapy is often long, around 7-10 days.
What's the dose?
- Varies depending on weight and what you are treating
- Typical doses are around 45 mg/kg/day (standard) or 90 mg/kg/day (high) up to standard adult doses of 500-1000 mg per dose
- High dose regimen is most commonly used for ear infections or pneumonia
- Usually given every 8 or 12 hours
What are the most common side effects?
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
- Headache
- Rash (mild to severe)
- Tooth discoloration
How should my child take it?
- Take with or without food, taking with meals may reduce stomach upset
- Shake the suspension well and use the measuring device provided
- Store suspension in the refrigerator
- You can mix it with formula, juice, water, or milk, but make sure your child drinks the whole thing
