Amoxicillin sodium

Amoxicillin sodium is a beta-lactam antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is a sodium salt form of amoxicillin, which is a penicillin-type antibiotic. Amoxicillin sodium is commonly used in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Escherichia coli.

Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

Amoxicillin sodium works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which inhibits the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis. This action leads to the weakening of the cell wall and ultimately causes cell lysis and death of the bacterium.

Pharmacokinetics

Amoxicillin sodium is well absorbed after oral administration, with a bioavailability of approximately 95%. It is widely distributed throughout the body tissues and fluids. The drug is approximately 17% protein-bound in plasma. Amoxicillin is metabolized in the liver and has an elimination half-life of about 1 hour. It is primarily excreted in the urine.

Clinical Uses

Amoxicillin sodium is indicated for the treatment of various infections, including:

• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Lower respiratory tract infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Gonorrhea
• Helicobacter pylori eradication (in combination with other drugs)

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of amoxicillin sodium varies depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's age and renal function. It can be administered orally or intravenously. For most infections, the typical adult dose ranges from 250 mg to 500 mg every 8 hours. In severe infections, higher doses may be required.

Adverse Effects

Common adverse effects of amoxicillin sodium include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Allergic reactions, including rash, urticaria, and anaphylaxis
• Hepatotoxicity
• Hematological effects such as thrombocytopenia and leukopenia

Contraindications

Amoxicillin sodium is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to penicillins or any component of the formulation. Caution is advised in patients with a history of allergic reactions to cephalosporins.

Interactions

Amoxicillin sodium may interact with other medications, including:

• Probenecid, which can decrease renal excretion of amoxicillin
• Oral contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness
• Anticoagulants, which may increase the risk of bleeding

See Also

• Amoxicillin
• Penicillin
• Antibiotic resistance

External Links

• Drugs.com: Amoxicillin
• MedlinePlus: Amoxicillin