Amoxicillin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including strep throat, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. It is generally safe for most people, but it can cause some side effects, some of which are more serious than others.
Common side effects of amoxicillin:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Headache
- Rash
- Vaginal yeast infection
Less common side effects of amoxicillin:
- Allergic reaction, which can be mild or severe
- Seizures
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Blood problems
- Intestinal perforation
- Clostridioides difficile infection (also known as C. diff), which can cause severe diarrhea
Serious side effects of amoxicillin:
- Allergic reaction: This is the most serious side effect of amoxicillin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking amoxicillin and seek medical attention immediately.
- Seizures: Amoxicillin can rarely cause seizures, especially in people with a history of seizures or other medical conditions. If you have a seizure while taking amoxicillin, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
- Liver damage: Amoxicillin can rarely cause liver damage. Symptoms of liver damage can include yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking amoxicillin and see your doctor right away.
- Kidney damage: Amoxicillin can rarely cause kidney damage. Symptoms of kidney damage can include decreased urine output, swelling, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking amoxicillin and see your doctor right away.
- Blood problems: Amoxicillin can rarely cause blood problems, such as a decrease in white blood cells or platelets. Symptoms of blood problems can include fever, easy bruising, and bleeding gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking amoxicillin and see your doctor right away.
- Intestinal perforation: Amoxicillin can rarely cause a hole in the intestine. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of intestinal perforation can include severe abdominal pain, fever, and bloody stools.
- Clostridioides difficile infection (C. diff): C. diff is a type of bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea. It can sometimes occur after taking antibiotics, such as amoxicillin. Symptoms of C. diff can include watery diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking amoxicillin, see your doctor right away.
It is important to note that these are just some of the possible side effects of amoxicillin. Not everyone who takes amoxicillin will experience side effects. If you have any concerns about taking amoxicillin, talk to your doctor.
Here are some tips for reducing the risk of side effects from amoxicillin:
- Take amoxicillin exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not take more than the prescribed amount.
- Take amoxicillin with food to reduce stomach upset.
- Drink plenty of fluids while taking amoxicillin.
- If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor.
It is also important to remember that antibiotics should only be taken when necessary. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can lead to antibiotic resistance, which means that bacteria become more difficult to treat with antibiotics.