Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including strep throat, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. It is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause some side effects, both mild and serious.
The most common side effects of amoxicillin are:
- Diarrhea: This is the most common side effect of amoxicillin. It usually goes away on its own after you stop taking the medication.
- Nausea and vomiting: These side effects are less common than diarrhea. They can usually be managed by taking amoxicillin with food.
- Skin rash: A mild rash is another common side effect of amoxicillin. It is usually not serious and goes away on its own.
- Headache: This is a less common side effect of amoxicillin. It can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
- Vaginal yeast infection: Amoxicillin can sometimes cause a vaginal yeast infection. This is more common in women.
Serious side effects of amoxicillin are rare, but they can occur. These include:
- Allergic reaction: A serious allergic reaction to amoxicillin is called anaphylaxis. This is a life-threatening reaction that can cause swelling of the face, tongue, and throat, difficulty breathing, and low blood pressure. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking amoxicillin and seek medical attention immediately.
- Severe diarrhea: Diarrhea that is severe or bloody can be a sign of a serious condition called Clostridium difficile infection. This infection can cause watery, bloody stools, fever, and abdominal pain. If you experience severe diarrhea, stop taking amoxicillin and see your doctor right away.
- Seizures: Amoxicillin can rarely cause seizures in people who have a history of seizures or other neurological conditions. If you have a seizure while taking amoxicillin, stop taking the medication and see your doctor right away.
If you experience any side effects while taking amoxicillin, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if the side effects are serious and whether you need to stop taking the medication.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the side effects of amoxicillin:
- The risk of side effects is higher in children younger than 2 years old.
- The risk of allergic reaction is also higher in people who have had an allergic reaction to other penicillin antibiotics.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking amoxicillin.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.