amoxicillin
an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by a wide range of bacteria and other microorganisms. It is administered by mouth. Side-effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, rashes, and anaemia. Sensitivity to penicillin prohibits its use.
Amoxicillin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as pneumonia, skin, and urinary tract infections eliminate H. pylori, a bacteria that causes ulcers in combination with other medications Amoxicillin is in a class of medications called penicillin-like antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin will not work for colds, flu, and other viral infections. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking amoxicillin affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether taking amoxicillin (in combination with clavulanic acid) can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have concerns about fertility, this is something to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Does taking amoxicillin increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons, and the fact sheet notes that studies have not been done to see whether taking amoxicillin with clavulanic acid increases the chance of miscarriage. Any questions about your individual situation should be directed to your healthcare provider.
Does taking amoxicillin increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy begins with a 3–5% background chance of a birth defect. Most studies have not found an increased chance of birth defects when amoxicillin with clavulanic acid is used in the first trimester, though data on the combination are limited. A few studies of amoxicillin alone have suggested a higher chance of cleft lip and/or cleft palate with first-trimester use, while others have not; overall the chance is described as low. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this in your own situation.
Can taking amoxicillin during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet states that taking amoxicillin with clavulanic acid is not expected to increase the chance of preterm delivery or low birth weight. However, some studies have suggested that using this combination after preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) may increase the chance of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in the newborn, so other antibiotics might be preferred in that specific situation. A healthcare provider can advise on the most appropriate choice for individual circumstances.
Can taking amoxicillin during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet describes a study that followed hundreds of children up to age 11 and did not find that using amoxicillin with clavulanic acid in pregnancy causes learning or behavior problems in the child. Any specific concerns about a child's development are best discussed with a healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin and clavulanic acid pass into breast milk in small amounts, and the fact sheet notes these amounts are not expected to cause side effects in most nursing infants; in one study of 67 breastfed infants, no serious side effects were reported, though some had short-lived rash, diarrhea, irritability, or constipation. If you notice symptoms such as rash or diarrhea in the baby, contact the child's healthcare provider, and discuss any breastfeeding questions with your own provider.
Source: National Library of Medicine
amoxicillin