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Amoxicillin

Also sold as Amoxicillin, AMOXICILLIN

From 6 official FDA drug labels · RxNorm 308194

This comes from U.S. FDA labels. Brand names, strengths and advice can differ in your country; check with a local health professional. Set your country.

What it is used for

These are the uses the FDA has approved for this label. Using it for anything else is “off-label”: ask your prescriber why.

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Adults and Pediatric Patients Upper Respiratory Tract Infections of the Ear, Nose, and Throat: Amoxicillin tablets are indicated in the treatment of infections due to susceptible (ONLY β-lactamase-negative) isolates of Streptococcus species. (α- and β-hemolytic isolates only), Streptococcus pneumoniae , Staphylococcus spp., or Haemophilus influenzae . Infections of the Genitourinary Tract: Amoxicillin tablets are indicated in the treatment of infections due to susceptible (ONLY β-lactamase–negative) isolates of Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis , or Enterococcus faecalis . Infections of the Skin and Skin Structure: Amoxicillin tablets are indicated in the treatment of infections due to susceptible (ONLY β-lactamase–negative) isolates of Streptococcus spp. (α- and β-hemolytic isolates only), Staphylococcus spp., or E. coli . Infections of the Lower Respiratory Tract: Amoxicillin tablets are indicated in the treatment of infections due to susceptible (ONLY β-lactamase–negative) isolates of Streptococcus spp. (α- and β-hemolytic isolates only), S. pneumoniae, Staphylococcus spp., or H. influenzae . Adult Patients only Helicobacter pylori Infection and Duodenal Ulcer Disease: Triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) with clarithromycin and lansoprazole: Amoxicillin tablets, in combination with clarithromycin plus lansoprazole as triple therapy, are indicated for the treatment of patients with H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active or 1-year history of a duodenal ulcer) to eradicate H. pylori . Eradication of H. pylori has been shown to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence. Dual therapy for H. pylori with lansoprazole : Amoxicillin tablets, in combination with lansoprazole delayed-release capsules as dual therapy, are indicated for the treatment of patients with H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active or 1-year history of a duodenal ulcer) who are either allergic or intolerant to clarithromycin or in whom resistance to clarithromycin is known or suspected . (See the clarithromycin package insert, MICROBIOLOGY.) Eradication of H. pylori has been shown to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence. Usage To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of amoxicillin tablets and other antibacterial drugs, amoxicillin tablets should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. Amoxicillin tablets are a penicillin-class antibacterial indicated for treatment of infections due to susceptible strains of designated microorganisms. ( 1 ) Adults and Pediatric Patients ( 1 ) Upper Respiratory Tract Infections of the Ear, Nose, and Throat Infections of the Genitourinary Tract Infections of the Skin and Skin Structure Infections of the Lower Respiratory Tract Adult Patients only ( 1 ) Helicobacter pylori Infection and Duodenal Ulcer Disease Usage To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of amoxicillin tablets and other antibacterial drugs, amoxicillin tablets should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. ( 1 )

How to take it

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION In Adults, 750 to 1750 mg/day in divided doses every 8 to 12 hours. In Pediatric Patients over 3 Months of Age, 20 to 45 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 to 12 hours. Refer to full prescribing information for specific dosing regimens. ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) The upper dose for neonates and infants aged 3 months or younger is 30 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours. ( 2.3 ) Dosing for H. pylori Infection (in Adults): Triple therapy: 1 gram amoxicillin, 500 mg clarithromycin, and 30 mg lansoprazole, all given twice daily (every 12 hours) for 14 days. Dual therapy: 1 gram amoxicillin and 30 mg lansoprazole, each given three times daily (every 8 hours) for 14 days. ( 2.4 ) Reduce the dose in patients with severe renal impairment (GFR greater than 30 mL/min). ( 2.5 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions To minimize the potential for gastrointestinal intolerance, amoxicillin tablets should be taken at the start of a meal. 2.2 Dosage for Adults and Pediatric Patients Aged 3 Months (12 weeks) and Older Treatment should be continued for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours beyond the time that the patient becomes asymptomatic, or evidence of bacterial eradication has been obtained. It is recommended that there be at least 10 days’ treatment for any infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes to prevent the occurrence of acute rheumatic fever. In some infections, therapy may be required for several weeks. It may be necessary to continue clinical and/or bacteriological follow-up for several months after cessation of therapy. Table 1. Dosage Recommendations for Adult and Pediatric Patients Aged 3 Months (12 weeks) and Older Infection Severity a Recommended Dosage for Adults and Pediatric Patients Aged 3 Months and Older and Weight Greater than 40 kg Recommended Dosage for Pediatric Patients Aged 3 Months and Older and Weight Less than 40 kg Ear/Nose/Throat Skin/Skin Structure Genitourinary Tract Mild/Moderate 500 mg every 12 hours or 250 mg every 8 hours 25 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours or 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours Severe 875 mg every 12 hours or 500 mg every 8 hours 45 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours or 40 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours Lower Respiratory Tract Mild/Moderate or Severe 875 mg every 12 hours or 500 mg every 8 hours 45 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours or 40 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours a Dosage for infections caused by bacteria that are intermediate in their susceptibility to amoxicillin should follow the recommendations for severe infections. 2.3 Dosage in Pediatric Patients Aged Less than 12 Weeks (3 months) It is recommended that there be at least 10 days’ treatment for any infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes to prevent the occurrence of acute rheumatic fever. Due to incompletely developed renal function affecting elimination of amoxicillin in this age group, the recommended upper dose of amoxicillin tablets is 30 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours. There are currently no dosing recommendations for pediatric patients with impaired renal function. Treatment should be continued for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours beyond the time that the patient becomes asymptomatic, or evidence of bacterial eradication has been obtained. 2.4 Dosage for H. pylori Infection in Adults Triple therapy: The recommended adult oral dose is 1 gram amoxicillin, 500 mg clarithromycin, and 30 mg lansoprazole, all given twice daily (every 12 hours) for 14 days. Dual therapy: The recommended adult oral dose is 1 gram amoxicillin and 30 mg lansoprazole, each given three times daily (every 8 hours) for 14 days. Please refer to clarithromycin and lansoprazole full prescribing information. 2.5 Dosage in Renal Impairment for Adults and Pediatric Patients Aged 3 Months and Older and Weight Greater than 40 kg Patients with impaired renal function do not generally require a reduction in dose unless the impairment is severe. Renal impairment patients with a glomerular filtration rate of less than 30 mL/min should NOT receive the 875 mg dose. See dosage regimens in patients with severe renal impairment provided in Table 2. Table 2. Dosing in Patients with Severe Renal Impairment Patients with Renal Impairment Dosage Regimen GFR 10 to 30 mL/min 500 mg or 250 mg every 12 hours, depending on the severity of the infection GFR less than 10 mL/min 500 mg or 250 mg every 24 hours, depending on severity of the infection Hemodialysis 500 mg or 250 mg every 24 hours, depending on severity of the infection Administer an additional dose both during and at the end of dialysis

Do not take it if

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Amoxicillin tablets are contraindicated in patients who have experienced a serious hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome) to amoxicillin tablets or to other β-lactam antibacterial drugs (e.g., penicillins and cephalosporins). History of a serious hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome) to amoxicillin tablets or to other beta-lactams (e.g., penicillins or cephalosporins). (4)

Serious warnings and precautions

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Anaphylactic reactions: Serious and occasionally fatal anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients on penicillin therapy, including amoxicillin. Discontinue amoxicillin if a reaction occurs ( 5.1 ). Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR): Monitor closely. Discontinue if rash progresses. ( 5.2 ) Clostridioides difficile -associated diarrhea (CDAD) (ranging from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis): Evaluate if diarrhea occurs. ( 5.3 ) 5.1 Anaphylactic Reactions Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions have been reported in patients on penicillin therapy including amoxicillin. Although anaphylaxis is more frequent following parenteral therapy, it has occurred in patients on oral penicillins. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity and/or a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. There have been reports of individuals with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity who have experienced severe reactions when treated with cephalosporins. Before initiating therapy with amoxicillin, careful inquiry should be made regarding previous hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins, cephalosporins, or other allergens. If an allergic reaction occurs, amoxicillin should be discontinued, and appropriate therapy instituted. 5.2 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions Amoxicillin may cause severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR), such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP). If patients develop skin rash they should be monitored closely, and amoxicillin discontinued if lesions progress. 5.3 Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) Clostridioides difficile- associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including amoxicillin, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile. C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin-producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over 2 months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile , and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated. 5.4 Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria Prescribing amoxicillin in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria. 5.5 Skin Rash in Patients with Mononucleosis A high percentage of patients with mononucleosis who receive amoxicillin develop an erythematous skin rash. Thus, amoxicillin should not be administered to patients with mononucleosis.

Common side effects

From the label’s clinical-trial and reporting data. Serious problems are under the warnings above.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Anaphylactic reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Clostridioides difficile- Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] The most common adverse reactions (greater than 1%) observed in clinical trials of amoxicillin tablets or for oral suspension were diarrhea, rash, vomiting, and nausea. (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. at 1-866-850-2876 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The most common adverse reactions (greater than 1%) observed in clinical trials of amoxicillin tablets or oral suspension were diarrhea, rash, vomiting, and nausea. Triple therapy: The most frequently reported adverse events for patients who received triple therapy (amoxicillin/clarithromycin/lansoprazole) were diarrhea (7%), headache (6%), and taste perversion (5%). Dual therapy: The most frequently reported adverse events for patients who received double therapy amoxicillin/lansoprazole were diarrhea (8%) and headache (7%). For more information on adverse reactions with clarithromycin or lansoprazole, refer to the Adverse Reactions section of their package inserts. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience In addition to adverse events reported from clinical trials, the following events have been identified during postmarketing use of penicillins. Because they are reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, estimates of frequency cannot be made. These events have been chosen for inclusion due to a combination of their seriousness, frequency of reporting, or potential causal connection to amoxicillin. Infections and Infestations: Mucocutaneous candidiasis. Gastrointestinal: Black hairy tongue, and hemorrhagic/pseudomembranous colitis. Onset of pseudomembranous colitis symptoms may occur during or after antibacterial treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Immune: Hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions (including shock), angioedema, serum sickness–like reactions (urticaria or skin rash accompanied by arthritis, arthralgia, myalgia, and frequently fever), hypersensitivity vasculitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Skin and Appendages: Rashes, pruritus, urticaria, erythema multiforme, SJS, TEN, DRESS, AGEP, exfoliative dermatitis [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Liver: A moderate rise in AST and/or ALT has been noted, but the significance of this finding is unknown. Hepatic dysfunction including cholestatic jaundice, hepatic cholestasis and acute cytolytic hepatitis have been reported. Renal: Crystalluria has been reported [see Overdosage (10) ] . Hemic and Lymphatic Systems: Anemia, including hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenic purpura, eosinophilia, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported. These reactions are usually reversible on discontinuation of therapy and are believed to be hypersensitivity phenomena. Central Nervous System: Reversible hyperactivity, agitation, anxiety, insomnia, confusion, convulsions, behavioral changes, aseptic meningitis, and/or dizziness have been reported. Miscellaneous: Tooth discoloration (brown, yellow, or gray staining) has been reported. Most reports occurred in pediatric patients. Discoloration was reduced or eliminated with brushing or dental cleaning in most cases.

Taking it with other medicines

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Co-administration with probenicid is not recommended. (7.1) Concomitant use of amoxicillin and oral anticoagulants may increase the prolongation of prothrombin time. (7.2) Co-administration with allopurinol increases the risk of rash. (7.3) Amoxicillin may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives. (7.4) 7.1 Probenecid Probenecid decreases the renal tubular secretion of amoxicillin. Concurrent use of amoxicillin and probenecid may result in increased and prolonged blood levels of amoxicillin. 7.2 Oral Anticoagulants Abnormal prolongation of prothrombin time (increased international normalized ratio [INR]) has been reported in patients receiving amoxicillin and oral anticoagulants. Appropriate monitoring should be undertaken when anticoagulants are prescribed concurrently. Adjustments in the dose of oral anticoagulants may be necessary to maintain the desired level of anticoagulation. 7.3 Allopurinol The concurrent administration of allopurinol and amoxicillin increases the incidence of rashes in patients receiving both drugs as compared to patients receiving amoxicillin alone. It is not known whether this potentiation of rashes is due to allopurinol or the hyperuricemia present in these patients. 7.4 Oral Contraceptives Amoxicillin may affect the intestinal flora, leading to lower estrogen reabsorption and reduced efficacy of combined oral estrogen/progesterone contraceptives. 7.5 Other Antibacterials Chloramphenicol, macrolides, sulfonamides, and tetracyclines may interfere with the bactericidal effects of penicillin. This has been demonstrated in vitro ; however, the clinical significance of this interaction is not well documented. 7.6 Effects on Laboratory Tests High urine concentrations of ampicillin may result in false-positive reactions when testing for the presence of glucose in urine using CLINITEST ® , Benedict’s Solution, or Fehling’s Solution. Since this effect may also occur with amoxicillin, it is recommended that glucose tests based on enzymatic glucose oxidase reactions (such as CLINISTIX ® ) be used. Following administration of ampicillin or amoxicillin to pregnant women, a transient decrease in plasma concentration of total conjugated estriol, estriol-glucuronide, conjugated estrone, and estradiol has been noted.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding

8.1 Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects : Pregnancy Category B. Reproduction studies have been performed in mice and rats at doses up to 2000 mg/kg (3 and 6 times the 3 g human dose, based on body surface area). There was no evidence of harm to the fetus due to amoxicillin. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, amoxicillin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

If you take too much

10 OVERDOSAGE In case of overdosage, discontinue amoxicillin, treat symptomatically, and institute supportive measures as required. A prospective study of 51 pediatric patients at a poison-control center suggested that overdosages of less than 250 mg/kg of amoxicillin are not associated with significant clinical symptoms. Interstitial nephritis resulting in oliguric renal failure has been reported in a small number of patients after overdosage with amoxicillin 1 . Crystalluria, in some cases leading to renal failure, has also been reported after amoxicillin overdosage in adult and pediatric patients. In case of overdosage, adequate fluid intake and diuresis should be maintained to reduce the risk of amoxicillin crystalluria. Renal impairment appears to be reversible with cessation of drug administration. High blood levels may occur more readily in patients with impaired renal function because of decreased renal clearance of amoxicillin. Amoxicillin may be removed from circulation by hemodialysis.

Forms and strengths available

250 MG / 10 MG / 12.5 MG · Delayed Release Oral Capsule60 MG/ML · Oral Suspension50 MG / 12.5 MG · Oral Tablet200 MG / 50 MG · Oral Tablet300 MG / 75 MG · Oral Tablet100 MG / 25 MG · Oral Tablet100 MG / 25 MG · Chewable Tablet200 MG / 50 MG · Chewable Tablet300 MG / 75 MG · Chewable Tablet50 MG / 12.5 MG · Chewable Tablet50 MG/ML · Oral Suspension100 MG/ML · Oral Suspension125 MG · Chewable Tablet250 MG · Oral Capsule400 MG · Chewable Tablet80 MG/ML · Oral Suspension500 MG · Oral Capsule500 MG · Oral Tablet875 MG · Oral Tablet25 MG/ML · Oral Suspension40 MG/ML · Oral Suspension200 MG · Oral Tablet400 MG · Oral Tablet250 MG / 125 MG · Oral Tablet

From RxNorm. Which forms and strengths are actually stocked varies by pharmacy and country.

Reactions people have reported

pyrexia 3injury 2overdose 2bone marrow failure 2abdominal pain 2thrombocytopenia 2chest pain 2general physical health deterioration 2cough 2weight decreased 1

These are counts from 17 voluntary reports to the FDA. They show what has been reported — they are not how common a side effect is, and they do not prove the medicine caused it.

Recalls

Class II · Jan 3, 2024
AMOXICILLIN Tablets, USP, 875MG, 20 Tablets, Rx Only, Manufactured by Sandoz GmbH for Sandoz Inc., Princeton, NJ 08540. NDC: 0781-5060-20
Reason: CGMP Deviations: Products were exposed to temperatures outside of the products labeled storage conditions.
Class II · Jan 3, 2024
AMOXICILLIN for Oral Suspension USP, 400MG/5ML, 100ML (when reconstituted), Manufactured In Canada By: TEVA CANA LIMITED, Toronto, Canada M1B 2K9; Manufactured For: TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA, INC., North Wales, PA 19454. NDC: 0093-4161-73
Reason: CGMP Deviations: Products were exposed to temperatures outside of the products labeled storage conditions.
Class II · Jun 15, 2022
Amoxicillin Capsules, USP, 500 mg, 100-count bottle, Rx only, MFG: Sandoz Pharma, NDC 0781-2613-01
Reason: cGMP deviations: Temperature abuse
Class III · Jun 7, 2017
Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Tablets, USP, 500 mg/125 mg, in 20 count bottles, Rx Only, Manufactured in Austria by Sandoz Gmbh for Sandoz Inc. Princeton NJ NDC 0781-1831-20
Reason: Subpotent Drug; Clavulanic Acid
Class III · Nov 30, 2016
Amoxicillin for Oral suspension, USP 400 mg/5 mL, 100 mL (when reconstituted), Rx only, Manufactured by: Hikma Pharmaceuticals, P.O. Box 183400, Amman 11118 - Jordan, NDC 0143-9887-01
Reason: Labeling: Label Error on Declared Strength: Some bottles miss a color coded panel where the strength of the product is typically displayed.
Class II · Aug 31, 2016
Amoxicillin for Oral Suspension USP, 400 mg/ 5 mL, 50 mL bottle, Rx only, Manufactured In Canada by: Teva Canada Limited, Toronto, Canada, NDC 0093-4161-76
Reason: Superpotent drug: Out of specification test result for assay during stability testing.
Class III · Jul 24, 2013
Amoxicillin for Oral Suspension, USP 200 mg/5 mL, a) 75 mL bottle NDC 0093-4160-78 and b) 100 mL bottle NDC 0093-4160-73, Rx Only, Manufactured in Canada by: Teva Canada Limited, Toronto, Canada M1B2K9, Manufactured for: Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Sellersville, PA 18960.
Reason: Discoloration: This recall is being carried out due to an orange to brown discolored Amoxicillin powder on the inner foil seal of the bottles. This is an expansion of RES 65050.
Class III · Jun 19, 2013
Amoxicillin for Oral Suspension, USP 400mg/5mL, NDC 0093-4161-78 (75ml) and 0093-4161-73 (100mL)
Reason: Discoloration: This recall is being carried out due to a yellow to brown discolored Amoxicillin powder on the inner foil seal of the bottles.

Research & studies

Recent higher-quality studies about Amoxicillin, from PubMed. We link to the source — titles only. This is not medical advice.

Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist

Why you can trust this

Everything above comes from official FDA drug labels (openFDA), not written by us. Here are the exact labels used.

This information explains the official label. It cannot tell you whether this medicine is right or safe for you personally — only a qualified health professional who knows your history can do that. Do not start, stop, or change a medicine based on this page alone.