Amoxicillin is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Amoxicillin is generally safe for most people, but it can cause some side effects, such as:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Vaginal yeast infection
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Serious side effects of amoxicillin are rare, but they can occur. These include:
- Allergic reaction
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Seizures
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a serious skin rash)
If you experience any of these serious side effects, stop taking amoxicillin and contact your doctor immediately.
The impact of amoxicillin on your body depends on the dose you take and how long you take it. For most people, the effects are mild and go away on their own. However, in some cases, amoxicillin can cause more serious side effects.
Here is a more detailed look at the impact of amoxicillin on different parts of your body:
- Gastrointestinal tract: Amoxicillin can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if they are severe or do not go away, you should talk to your doctor.
- Skin: Amoxicillin can cause a rash. This is usually a mild rash that goes away on its own. However, if the rash is severe or does not go away, you should talk to your doctor.
- Liver: Amoxicillin can rarely cause liver damage. This is a serious side effect that requires medical attention. If you experience any symptoms of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or fatigue, you should talk to your doctor immediately.
- Kidneys: Amoxicillin can rarely cause kidney damage. This is a serious side effect that requires medical attention. If you experience any symptoms of kidney damage, such as decreased urination, swelling, or fatigue, you should talk to your doctor immediately.
- Nervous system: Amoxicillin can rarely cause seizures. This is a serious side effect that requires medical attention. If you experience a seizure while taking amoxicillin, you should talk to your doctor immediately.
If you are taking amoxicillin, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and to talk to your doctor if you experience any of them.
Here are some tips for reducing the risk of side effects from amoxicillin:
- Take amoxicillin with food. This can help to reduce nausea and vomiting.
- Drink plenty of fluids. This can help to prevent dehydration, which can occur if you have diarrhea.
- Do not take amoxicillin for longer than the prescribed time. This can increase the risk of side effects.
- Talk to your doctor about all of your medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. Some medications can interact with amoxicillin and increase the risk of side effects.
If you have any questions or concerns about taking amoxicillin, talk to your doctor.