Amoxicillin is a penicillin medication that can effectively fight off bacteria. Amoxicillin is prescribed to treat different types of bacterial infections including pneumonia, tonsillitis, bronchitis and infections of the skin, throat, ear, nose or urinary tract. Amoxicillin may also be prescribed alongside other medications to treat other conditions.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Take amoxicillin at the same time each day.
• Continue taking amoxicillin for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms have improved.
• You may need frequent medical tests while you are taking this medication.
• Do not share this medication with any other person, even if they display the same symptoms as you.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of kidney disease, mononucleosis (mono) or diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• If you are breast-feeding. This medication passes into breast milk.

You should also know:

• Amoxicillin may make birth control pills less effective. Speak to a doctor about other methods of birth control.

As you take amoxicillin, you may notice some amoxicillin side effects. More common side effects include rashes, nausea, and vomiting.

But if you experience less common, more serious side effects, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor as soon as possible.

These side effects can involve:

• Diarrhea
• A black, swollen, or hairy tongue
• Fever
• Swollen glands
• Pale or yellowed skin
• Severe tingling
• Easy bruising
• Severe skin reactions

What is amoxicillin used for?

Typically, amoxicillin is used to treat bacterial infections, such as tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, gonorrhea, and any infections of the ear, nose, throat, skin, and urinary tract. And sometimes, it may also be combined with clarithromycin to treat stomach ulcers caused by an infection from the bacteria Helicobacter pylori.

Does amoxicillin make you tired?

While not a common side effect, sleepiness can occur when you take amoxicillin.

Can you drink alcohol on amoxicillin?

You’re most likely fine to drink alcohol while on amoxicillin. Currently, there does not seem to be an indication that alcohol and amoxicillin will interact negatively. But it’s important to keep in mind that alcohol can interfere with the body’s natural healing ability. So you may want to avoid alcoholic beverages until your condition has been completely treated.