About Amoxicillin
Medically reviewed by Dr Khizer Hussain Junaidy, MD Pharmacology, Diabetologist & Bariatric Physician, on 23 Oct 2026.
What it is for
An antibiotic for bacterial infections of the throat, ear, chest, teeth and urine. Often combined with clavulanic acid.
How to take it
Take it at evenly spaced times, with or after food. Finish the full course the doctor gives, even if you feel better.
Common side effects
- Loose stools.
- Nausea.
- Skin rash.
Call your doctor if
- Swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or breathing difficulty. Get help at once.
- Severe or bloody diarrhoea.
- Rash with blisters or peeling skin.
Take care
Amoxicillin is a penicillin. Do not take it if you have ever had an allergy to penicillin or amoxicillin. Tell the doctor about any other antibiotic allergy.
From our clinic: Antibiotics do not work for colds and most sore throats, which are caused by viruses.