Amoxycillin is a semi-synthetic penicillin, an analogue of ampicillin, with a broad range of bactericidal activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative micro-organisms. It is stable in presence of gastric acid and may be given without regard to meals. It acts through inhibition of biosynthesis of cell wall mucopeptide.

Amoxycillin is considered a good choice for treating acute sinusitis, acute otitis media, and of acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. The drug is superior to ordinary penicillin in these cases.

Working
The drug works by inhibiting bacterial cell walls synthesis. It also slows down or inhibits cross-linkage between the linear peptidoglycan polymer chains that constitute a major component of the cell wall of Gram-positive bacteria.

The drug, in its trihydrate form is available as tablets, capsules, or syrup for oral use, and as sodium salt for being intravenously administration

Dosage
Adult: 250mg to 1 gm thrice daily
Children : 20 mg/kg body weight in 3 divided doses

Contra- Indications
Individuals with a history of an allergic reaction to penicillin. Pregnancy

Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated with the drug:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rashes

Brands