How does amoxicillin work?
Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.
When will I feel better?
For most infections, you should feel better within a few days.
It's very important that you keep taking amoxicillin until your course is finished. Do this even if you feel better. It will help stop the infection coming back.
Tell your doctor if you do not start feeling better after taking amoxicillin for 3 to 5 days. Also tell them if, at any time, you start to feel worse.
Will it give me thrush?
Some people get a fungal infection called thrush after taking a course of antibiotics like amoxicillin. If this regularly happens for you, speak to your doctor before starting the course of amoxicillin. If you think you have thrush, speak to your pharmacist or ask your doctor for advice.
How does amoxicillin compare with other antibiotics?
Amoxicillin and other penicillins, like phenoxymethylpenicillin and flucloxacillin, are antibiotics that are widely used to treat a variety of infections, including skin, dental, throat and chest infections.
Not all antibiotics are suitable for every infection. Your doctor will choose an antibiotic that's suitable for the type of infection you have. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions.
Does amoxicillin stain teeth?
If you or your child take amoxicillin as a liquid medicine, it can sometimes stain your teeth. This does not last and should go after brushing your teeth.
Amoxicillin capsules do not stain teeth.
Will it affect my contraception?
Amoxicillin does not stop any type of contraception working, including the combined contraceptive pill, progestogen-only pill and emergency contraception.
However, if amoxicillin makes you sick (vomit) or have severe, watery diarrhoea or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy.
Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.
Find out more:
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Yes. Amoxicillin should not affect you being able to drive or cycle.
Can I drink alcohol while taking amoxicillin?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking amoxicillin.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking amoxicillin.