How to Take Amoxicillin: Side Effects, Dosage
Learn how to take amoxicillin as directed: dosing guidelines, common side effects, precautions and when to consult your doctor.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
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Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Amoxicillin
How to Take Amoxicillin
The following information reflects FDA-approved prescribing information for Amoxicillin (amoxicillin). Always follow your prescriber's specific instructions:
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, adults (most infections): Common regimens are 500 mg every 8 hours or 875 mg every 12 hours. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Food is optional, but taking it with a small snack may help reduce stomach upset.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, children: Doses are based on weight. A common range is 40–50 mg per kg per day, divided into two or three doses. Use the dosing syringe or cup that comes with the medicine for accuracy.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, timing matters: Take doses evenly spaced through the day to keep levels steady. If on an every-8-hour schedule, aim for morning–afternoon–bedtime. For twice-daily dosing, breakfast and dinner usually work well.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, complete the full course: Keep taking it until the prescription is finished, even if you feel better sooner.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for the next one. If so, skip the missed dose—don't double up.
- Swallowing options: Capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole. Liquid suspension should be shaken well before each dose.
- Storage: Keep tablets at room temperature. Most pharmacy-mixed liquid suspensions need refrigeration; discard after 14 days unless your pharmacist specifies otherwise.
Warnings Before Taking Amoxicillin
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, tell your clinician about any penicillin or cephalosporin allergy, especially past rashes, swelling, or breathing issues.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, share all medications and supplements to avoid interactions, including blood thinners or methotrexate.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, discuss kidney disease or pregnancy, as dosing or monitoring may need adjustment.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, report prior antibiotic-related colitis.
Amoxicillin Side Effects
Common
Mild
Upset Stomach
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, nausea or mild stomach discomfort is a commonly reported side effect of amoxicillin. Taking amoxicillin with a light snack may help reduce stomach irritation.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Common
Mild
Diarrhea
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, amoxicillin can shift gut bacteria, leading to loose stools. Staying hydrated is important.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–24 hours
Common
Mild
Headache
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people notice a dull, temporary headache while taking amoxicillin.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–6 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Skin Rash
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, a mild, itchy rash can appear, especially in children. Let your clinician know if it spreads or worsens, as some rashes may indicate an allergic reaction requiring evaluation.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
12–48 hours
Uncommon
Moderate
Yeast Overgrowth
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, changes in normal bacteria caused by amoxicillin can lead to yeast infections, such as oral thrush or vaginal irritation.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–7 days
Uncommon
Mild
Changes in Taste
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people experience a brief metallic or altered taste while taking amoxicillin. It usually fades soon after each dose.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
5–30 minutes
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Amoxicillin
What If You Forgot to Take Amoxicillin?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's very close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and return to your usual timing; doubling up can increase stomach upset without improving treatment.
To stay on track:
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, keep doses evenly spaced through the day.
- If you're unsure what to do after a missed dose, call your pharmacy or clinic for quick guidance.
What If You Took Too Much Amoxicillin
What If You Took Too Much Amoxicillin?
If more than the prescribed amount was taken, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away or seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Do not take additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or your prescriber.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, antibiotic overdose may cause gastrointestinal symptoms. If symptoms such as severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea occur, call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Amoxicillin Cost
Cost of Amoxicillin With Insurance
With many U.S. insurance plans, amoxicillin is typically affordable. Because it's a widely used, generic antibiotic, many plans place it in a low-cost tier. Exact pricing depends on your insurer, pharmacy choice, and plan formulary.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
How Much Does Amoxicillin Cost without Insurance
Cost of Amoxicillin Without Insurance
Without insurance, the price of amoxicillin is generally manageable. Common forms, such as 500 mg capsules or oral suspension, are available at many pharmacies. Some large retail pharmacies offer discount programs that can lower the cost, and using a pharmacy discount coupon may also help reduce the price.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
Resources:
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/amoxicillin
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a685001.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/amoxicillin-oral-route/description/drg-20075356
https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=3e32a3ad-5f2d-4f2f-8c63-3b859c1e3f8e
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/amoxicillin-information
