Amoxil

Amoxil

Amoxil is a brand name for the antibiotic amoxicillin, which is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is commonly prescribed for infections such as otitis media, sinusitis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.

Pharmacology

Amoxil (amoxicillin) is a beta-lactam antibiotic that works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins within the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death. Amoxicillin is effective against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria.

Indications

Amoxil is indicated for the treatment of the following infections:

• Acute otitis media
• Sinusitis
• Streptococcal pharyngitis
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Amoxil varies depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's age and weight. It is typically administered orally in the form of capsules, tablets, or a liquid suspension. The usual adult dose ranges from 250 mg to 500 mg every 8 hours, or 500 mg to 875 mg every 12 hours.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Amoxil include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash

Serious side effects, although rare, may include:

• Anaphylaxis
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea

Contraindications

Amoxil is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, penicillin, or any other component of the formulation. Caution is advised in patients with a history of allergic reactions to beta-lactam antibiotics.

Drug Interactions

Amoxil may interact with the following medications:

• Methotrexate: Amoxicillin may decrease the renal clearance of methotrexate, increasing the risk of toxicity.
• Warfarin: Amoxicillin may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Oral contraceptives: There is a theoretical risk that amoxicillin may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives.

See Also

• Antibiotic resistance
• Penicillin
• Beta-lactamase

External Links

• Amoxil on Drugs.com
• Amoxicillin - Mayo Clinic