Amoxicillin is a common antibiotic and dosing depends on the infection, your age, weight, and kidney function. Below you’ll find typical dose ranges and easy rules to follow so you know what to expect. Always use the prescription given by your doctor — this is a practical guide, not a personal prescription.
Adults — Common schedules are: 250–500 mg every 8 hours, or 500–875 mg every 12 hours for many infections. For more severe infections your provider may choose higher or more frequent dosing. Example: for uncomplicated bacterial sinusitis or bronchitis a typical option is 500 mg twice daily; for skin infections 500 mg every 8–12 hours may be used.
Children — Pediatric dosing is weight-based. Common ranges are 20–50 mg/kg/day divided into two or three doses. For routine infections many providers use 25–45 mg/kg/day in divided doses. For acute otitis media higher dosing (up to 80–90 mg/kg/day divided twice daily) is sometimes recommended. Your child’s prescription should specify mg per dose and how often to give it.
Amoxicillin comes as tablets, chewables, and liquid suspensions. Shake the bottle, measure with the provided device, and refrigerate the suspension if advised. Treatment length varies: strep throat is often treated for 10 days; uncomplicated skin or urinary infections can be 5–7 days; some sinus or respiratory infections may be 5–10 days depending on response. Finish the full course unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Kidney adjustment — If you have reduced kidney function, your doctor or pharmacist may lower the dose or extend the dosing interval. Always tell your prescriber about kidney disease or a transplant.
Missed dose — Take a missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Don’t double up to catch up.
Common side effects are stomach upset, diarrhea, and rash. If you develop hives, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, or severe rash, seek emergency care — these can be signs of a serious allergic reaction. Amoxicillin can affect INR in people on warfarin, so those patients need closer monitoring.
Practical tips: take with food if stomach upset occurs, complete the prescribed course, and store liquid forms in the fridge when instructed. If symptoms don’t improve in 48–72 hours, or they get worse, call your doctor. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Tell your provider so they can confirm it’s the right choice for you.
Want a quick checklist? Confirm the exact mg per dose, how many times per day, how long to take it, and whether the suspension needs refrigeration. If anything is unclear, ask your pharmacist — they’ll walk you through dosing and measuring the liquid.
Amoxil, a renowned medication in the penicillin family, offers a wide range of treatments for bacterial infections. While beneficial, it is essential to understand its correct usage and potential side effects. Discover optimal dosages and explore how it interacts with other drugs, ensuring you make well-informed decisions for effective treatment. Whether you're seeking affordable deals or detailed insight, this comprehensive guide provides valuable information.