Amoxicillin
Also known as: Amoxil
What it's for
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic. It kills bacteria that cause infections. It is used for chest infections, ear infections, dental infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Comes as: Capsules, liquid, or sachets
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 250mg to 500mg, 3 times a day.
- Take the capsules whole with water.
- You can take it with or without food.
- Finish the whole course, even if you feel better. This stops the infection coming back.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Feeling sick or diarrhoea
- Skin rash (common and usually mild)
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin or any other antibiotics
- Antibiotics can make the contraceptive pill less effective - use extra protection
- Do not drink alcohol as it may reduce how well the medicine works
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems
Get medical help urgently if…
- You develop a severe skin rash, itching, or hives
- You have swelling of your face, lips, or throat
- You have difficulty breathing
- You have severe or bloody diarrhoea
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.