Amoxil (Amoxicillin)

Description

Amoxil, a penicillin-based antibiotic, is used to treat infections such as middle ear, tonsils, throat, larynx (laryngitis), bronchi (bronchitis), lungs (pneumonia), urinary tract, gonorrhoea and skin.

The antibiotic does not kill the bacteria, but prevents them from forming the walls that surround them, which protect the bacteria from their environment and keeps the cell together (bacteria cannot survive without this cell wall), thereby stopping them from multiplying.

Amoxil is effective against a range of bacteria including H.influenzae, N.gonorrhoea, E.coli; Pneumococci, Streptococci and some strains of Staphylococci.

Method of Use

It is generally recommended that adults take 250g of Amoxil orally every 8 hours, which can be increased, as guided by your doctor, subject to the type and severity of the infection.

For children 3 months and above that weigh less than 40kg: it is recommended that a dosage of 25mg per kg, per day, is divided over a 12 hour period. This dose can be increased, as guided by your doctor, subject to the type and severity of the infection.

If you miss a dose of Amoxil, take a tablet as soon as you remember, unless this is close to your next scheduled dose. If it is, miss that dose and then return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Amoxil capsule, 125mg and 250mg dry powder is to be stored at or below 68°F (20°C), in its original container, tightly closed and away from heat, light and moisture. Amoxil tablets, chewable tablets, 200mg and 400mg dry powder are to be stored at or below 77°F (25°C), in its original container, tightly closed and away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store Amoxil in the bathroom. The product must be kept out of the reach of children and pets at all times.

Advise Notes

If you are allergic to amoxicillin, penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, or you have any other allergies, consult your doctor or pharmacist prior to taking Amoxil. As this medication may contain aspartame, advise your doctor of your medical history, particularly if you are suffering from a kidney disease, phenylketonuria (PKU) or other infections, such as mononucleosis.

It is recommended that you do not take Amoxil whilst pregnant or are planning to become pregnant. If it is medically required, discuss the risks and benefits thoroughly with your doctor prior to use. Amoxil is known to pass in to breast milk, therefore it is advisable not to take Amoxil whilst breast feeding.

Potential Side Effects

If you experience any of the following side effects, seek emergency medical treatment and notify your doctor as soon as possible. Possible side effects include:

• nausea, vomiting;
• diarrhoea;
• dark urine;
• stomach or abdominal pain;
• yellowing of the eyes or skin;
• bruising or bleeding; and
• sore throat or fever.

Amoxil may cause a temporary teeth staining. Correct brushing of the teeth will usually remove any staining, and may prevent re-occurrence.

Amoxil has been known to cause a severe intestinal condition, know as pseudo membranous colitis, due to a particularly resistant bacterium, and may occur several weeks following the end of treatment.

Do not use any form of anti-diarrhoea or narcotic pain medication whilst taking Amoxil. Should you develop ongoing diarrhoea, severe abdominal or stomach pain/cramps, or blood/mucus in your stool, seek emergency medical help immediately and advise your doctor as soon as possible.

Prolonged or repeated use of Amoxil may result in oral thrush or a vaginal yeast (fungal) infection. Should you see any white patches in your mouth, have a change in vaginal discharge, or any other new symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately and advise your doctor as soon as possible. If you are using Amoxil over an extended period of time, it is recommended that you undergo laboratory and/or medical tests, such as kidney and liver function, and complete blood counts, at regular intervals to monitor progress (please consult your doctor for details).

Do not share Amoxil with anyone else. It is recommended that you always complete a prescribed course. Do not use Amoxil at a later date for a different infection, unless advised by your doctor.

Please note that the above list is not complete and other side effects may occur. Should any other side effects happen, consult your doctor as soon as possible.