Amoxicillin is a medication used to treat bacterial infections. Taking amoxicillin will not kill bacteria, though it will prevent further growth. Amoxicillin is most commonly prescribed for infections of the throat, tonsils, middle ear, nose, and skin. Other uses of amoxicillin include treatment of bronchitis and pneumonia. It can also be used to treat urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Amoxicillin is not effective against viral infections.
One of the most common uses of amoxicillin is treatment of bacterial throat infections. These may include infections of the throat, tonsils, or larynx. Doctors commonly prescribe amoxicillin for strep throat and laryngitis. Generally, the dose is continued for a period of 7-14 days, and patients are encouraged to take the full dosage, even if they begin to feel better prior to its completion.
Other uses of amoxicillin include more serious illnesses, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Similar to the less serious indications, the drug must be taken for the full dosage or the bacteria may return. While some antibiotics kill bacteria, amoxicillin prevents bacteria from forming protective walls against itself, which keeps it from spreading or growing. With bacterial infections like bronchitis and pneumonia, it is particularly important that patients eradicate the bacteria before discontinuing medication. Otherwise, the bacteria can develop a resistance to amoxicillin and might return in a stronger form.
Amoxicillin is also used to treat urinary tract infections and STIs. It is commonly prescribed to people with gonorrhea, syphilis, or other bacterial STIs. This drug is not effective against viral STIs such as hepatitis and herpes simplex.
Amoxicillin may be used less frequently in treatment of other miscellaneous physical issues. Some doctors have found that prescribing amoxicillin for acne is an effective treatment in some patients, while it has no effect in others. Amoxicillin can also be used to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers, as well as to prevent their return. It might also be given to patients after surgery to prevent infection. Amoxicillin is also sometimes prescribed to patients with particular heart problems before they receive other medical treatment or dental procedures, in order to prevent heart infection.
There are many uses of amoxicillin, as it a very common prescription for people with bacterial infections. It is typically given in capsule, tablet, chewable, or liquid form. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic in the category of penicillin medicines. Patients with allergies to penicillin may need to avoid amoxicillin and be prescribed an alternative medication.