How it works
-
Book an appointment
Schedule a visit with a board-certified doctor at a time that works best for you.
-
Get the answers you need
Receive quality care, from diagnosis and prescriptions to lab orders and more.
-
Enjoy 24/7 peace of mind
Rest easy knowing that LifeMD is here for all your primary, urgent, and chronic health needs.
Save 90% Off Labs & Prescriptions
Dr. Banita Sehgal
Internal Medicine Physician
My approach to healthcare is rooted in building genuine partnerships with my patients.
Taking the time to understand their needs and goals helps us collaborate effectively and find the best path forward together. What I love most about my work is being someone they can count on — familiar, accessible, and focused on their well-being.
Amoxicillin FAQs
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to the penicillin group of antibiotics and is effective against a broad range of bacteria. Some of the common infections treated with amoxicillin include:
-
Respiratory infections: Amoxicillin can be prescribed for respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis.
-
Ear infections: It is used to treat middle ear infections (otitis media) caused by bacteria.
-
Throat infections: Amoxicillin can be effective against bacterial throat infections, including strep throat or tonsillitis.
-
Skin infections: It is used to treat bacterial skin infections, such as cellulitis and impetigo.
-
Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Amoxicillin may be prescribed for uncomplicated UTIs caused by susceptible bacteria.
-
Dental infections: It can also be used to treat dental infections, such as dental abscesses.
-
Gonorrhea: Amoxicillin is sometimes used in combination with other medications to treat gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection.
It's important to note that amoxicillin is specifically designed to treat bacterial infections and is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. Additionally, the effectiveness of amoxicillin can vary depending on the type of bacteria causing the infection and its susceptibility to the antibiotic.
It’s generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking amoxicillin. Drinking alcohol can potentially increase the risk of certain side effects and may reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotic.
Alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to metabolize and eliminate medications – including antibiotics like amoxicillin.
Additionally, consuming alcohol while on antibiotics can place additional stress on the liver, as both alcohol and amoxicillin are metabolized by the liver. This can potentially worsen liver function and increase the risk of liver damage.
If you choose to drink alcohol while taking amoxicillin, it's essential to do so in moderation and observe how your body reacts. Some people may tolerate alcohol in small amounts without experiencing significant adverse effects, while others may be more sensitive to the interaction between alcohol and amoxicillin.
The timing for taking amoxicillin can vary based on your healthcare provider's instructions, the dosage prescribed, and the type of infection being treated. Generally, amoxicillin can be taken with or without food.
If you are instructed to take amoxicillin multiple times a day, it's typically recommended to space the doses evenly throughout the day. For example, if you are prescribed amoxicillin three times a day, you might take it in the morning, afternoon, and evening to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your bloodstream.
However, some people find that taking amoxicillin with food can help minimize gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or stomach upset. If you experience stomach discomfort when taking amoxicillin on an empty stomach, you may prefer to take it with a meal or snack.
Amoxicillin can interact with various medications, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. These include:
- Probenecid
- Oral contraceptives
- Anticoagulants
- Allopurinol
- Other antibiotics
- Certain antacids
The most common side effects of amoxicillin include:
-
Gastrointestinal upset: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain are common gastrointestinal side effects associated with amoxicillin.
-
Yeast infections: Women may experience vaginal itching, discharge, or yeast infections due to changes in the balance of natural flora.
-
Skin rash or itching: Some people may develop a rash, itching, or hives while taking amoxicillin.
-
Headache: Headaches are a common side effect reported by some individuals.
-
Dizziness or lightheadedness: Amoxicillin may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some people.
-
Changes in taste: Alterations in taste, such as a metallic taste, have been reported by some individuals.
While these side effects are relatively common, they are usually mild and temporary. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, such as severe skin reactions, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat, it's essential to seek immediate medical attention, as these may indicate a severe allergic reaction or other serious medical condition.
LifeMD offers patients access to licensed healthcare providers who can offer guidance on healthcare concerns. Through our virtual platform, you can schedule same-day appointments and meet with a medical professional from the comfort of your home.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe you a medication if appropriate, and order it to your local pharmacy for your convenience. Skip the waiting room with LifeMD, make an appointment today to get started.