Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a penicillin Antibiotic used for selected susceptible bacterial infections. It does not treat colds, influenza or other viral illnesses.
Key points
- Infection site, likely bacteria, local resistance, allergy history and test results guide whether amoxicillin is appropriate.
- Take it exactly as prescribed; do not share leftovers or change the treatment duration without advice.
- Breathing difficulty, facial swelling, a blistering rash or severe persistent diarrhoea needs urgent care.
Listings are for comparison and general information, not an antibiotic recommendation; suitability and supply depend on diagnosis, clinician and pharmacy checks and prescription requirements.
Important safety checks
Previous penicillin or severe antibiotic allergy, kidney function, pregnancy and interacting medicines require review. A widespread rash is more likely in some viral illnesses, including infectious mononucleosis.
When to seek urgent care
Seek emergency help for breathing difficulty, throat swelling, collapse or a severe blistering rash. Bloody or persistent watery diarrhoea, jaundice or rapidly worsening infection needs prompt assessment.
Further reading
Related articles
Why symptoms and an antibiotic name cannot identify a bacterial infection, and what diagnosis, allergy, site and resistance change.
Read guide