Amoxicillin: food, missed doses and allergy symptoms
This guide is here to teach you. It is not medical advice, and it does not replace your doctor or pharmacist. Always do what your doctor tells you, and ask a pharmacist before you change how you take any medicine.
Print or save this guideQuick answers
Does amoxicillin treat a cold?
No. It treats certain bacterial infections, not cold or flu viruses. Use it only for the infection for which it was prescribed.
Can I take it with food?
Food may help if it upsets your stomach. Follow the instructions for your product.
Should I stop when I feel better?
Follow the prescribed course unless your clinician changes it or a serious reaction requires urgent advice. Do not save doses for a future illness or share them.
Sources: MedlinePlus; amoxicillin label, patient counseling.
How should I take the liquid?
Shake it before measuring. Use an oral syringe or another calibrated medicine measure, not a kitchen spoon. Read the bottle's storage and discard instructions. Keep doses spaced as prescribed; schedules vary. MedlinePlus
What if I miss a dose?
Take it when remembered unless the next dose is almost due. If so, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to catch up. Ask your pharmacist if several doses were missed or you cannot keep them down. MedlinePlus
Is a rash important?
Yes. Stop taking amoxicillin and contact your clinician promptly for a new rash or mouth sores. Call 911 for trouble breathing, facial or throat swelling, or fainting. Blistering or peeling skin needs urgent medical care. Tell your pharmacist about past reactions to penicillins or other antibiotics. Amoxicillin label, sections 4, 5 and 17
What about diarrhea?
Mild diarrhea can occur. Severe, persistent, watery or bloody diarrhea needs prompt medical advice, even after treatment has ended. Do not assume it is harmless. Amoxicillin label, section 5
What should my pharmacist check?
Mention kidney problems and show all medicines, including warfarin, allopurinol and probenecid. Amoxicillin label, sections 7 and 8
Ask a Fairview pharmacist
Ask Fairview about your label or read about taking antibiotics. Antibiotics require appropriate clinical assessment; our OTC online shop does not sell prescriptions. This is general education.