Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that works to treat certain bacterial infections, such as pneumonia (infection of the airway tubes leading to the lungs); bronchitis; and other infections of the ears, nose, throat, and urinary tract. It also helps prevent certain stomach ulcers caused by a bacteria called H. pylori.
Amoxicillin starts working almost immediately after you take a dose. It reaches full effectiveness about an hour later and usually relieves symptoms of infection within 72 hours.
Most people take amoxicillin in multiple daily doses to ensure a constant supply of medicine in their bodies. It's also important to space out the doses, taking them at different times of day, preferably at least 4 hours apart. Doing this allows your body to keep a consistent amount of medicine in your system, which can help reduce side effects and ensure that you get the most benefit from this medication.
You'll need to take amoxicillin as directed by your doctor, but remember that this drug has moderate interactions with other drugs. Tell your doctor if you're taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
Amoxicillin stays in your system for 8 to 12 hours after you've taken a single dose. This time period is when you can experience some of the drug's side effects, such as diarrhea.
