AMOXICILLIN

B-LACTAM

Cross and Allergic Reactions

Usage

Amoxicillin should not be taken if one has- Mononucleosis, Colitis, Diabetes, Renal Dysfunction, Pku (Phenylketonuria), Hemodialysis--Dose needs to be decreased when in pregnancy

Type

Amoxicillin is a broad spectrum drug (Effective against-aerobes, Anaerobes, Gram Positive and Gram Negative Bacteria) Acts against B-lactamase negative (B-lactamase positive bacteria are usually resistant to Amoxil).

Amoxicillin is available in oral and injectable forms.

It is bactericidal (kills bacteria by inhibiting the cell wall biosynthesis)

History

Amoxicillin was first Made in 1972, introduced in 1998:- artificially altered (semisynthetic) variant of penicillin, was able to treat diseases more effectively

Usage

They are most commonly prescribed antibiotics and are given for infections of respiratory tract, skin and soft tissues, urinary infections, postoperative procedures and prophylactically for prevention of infections.

Cross and Allergic Reactions

Amoxicillin cross reacts with Ampicillin, other penicillins and Cephalosporins.

It causes allergic Reactions such as skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, breathing problems, anaphylactic reaction

Side Effects

The side effects usually involve the skin, lungs, urinary tract and eye, ears, nose, and throat. They are- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, stomach pain, vaginal itching or discharge, headache, rash, and swollen, black, or "hairy" tongue. And other serious side effects like colitis caused by overgrowth of Clostridium in the intestines, seizures or heart burns, hives, jaundice, bleeding and rashes

Should not be taken if

Amoxicillin should not be taken if one has- Mononucleosis, Colitis, Diabetes, Renal Dysfunction, Pku (Phenylketonuria), Hemodialysis--Dose needs to be decreased when in pregnancy

Shelf Life

Shelf Life:- 1 year from manufacturing date, more than that can cause accelerated side effects