What is amoxicillin used for? 

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that can typically be used for:

• Ear infection

• Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis (Group A Strep)

• Pneumonia 

• Urinary tract infection 

• Sinus infection 

How does amoxicillin work (mechanism of action)?

Amoxicillin works by stopping certain bacteria from creating their cell wall.

What are the most common side effects seen with amoxicillin? 

• Nausea 

• Vomiting 

• Anorexia 

Contraindications

Amoxicillin shouldn’t be taken if your child has had an anaphylactic reaction (hives or swelling of the tongue) to amoxicillin (or amoxicillin/clavulanate). If your child has had an anaphylactic reaction to penicillins please discuss this with your provider. 

Tips & Tricks to administer amoxicillin

If your child is having difficulty taking amoxicillin (liquid or tablets), it can be mixed in some foods or beverages. Please keep in mind that if a medication is mixed with food or drink, it should be taken immediately. The mixture should not be saved or consumed later.

Amoxicillin can be mixed with: 

• Formula

• Milk

• Fruit juice

• Water

• Ginger ale

• Cold drinks

How to store amoxicillin

• Amoxicillin tablets should be stored at room temperature.

• Amoxicillin liquid can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature (refrigerator is preferred). 

Breast feeding considerations 

• Amoxicillin can be present in breast milk if being taken by the mother. 

• Amoxicillin is generally considered as compatible with breastfeeding. 

• In some cases, the nursing infant can experience diarrhea, rash and somnolence from the amoxicillin in the breast milk. These side effects are self limiting and will go away when amoxicillin is discontinued or if the nursing infant does not take feed using the breast milk. 

The information in this database regarding prescription drugs is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interaction or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. See disclaimer.