Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule for Bacterial Infections – Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule

Prescription Required

NPPA Regulated

Marketer

Jagsonpal Pharmaceuticals Ltd

SALT COMPOSITION

Amoxycillin (500mg)

Salt Synonyms

Amoxicillin

Storage

Store below 30°C

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Product Introduction 

Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule is a widely used and trusted antibiotic that belongs to the class of penicillin-type beta-lactam antibiotics. It is a first-line treatment option for a broad spectrum of bacterial infections affecting various organs and systems in the human body. The medicine is most commonly prescribed for conditions such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and infections of the ear, nose, and throat.

Amoxycillin works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, which are essential for bacterial survival. Without an intact cell wall, bacteria become vulnerable to environmental stress and eventually die. This makes Amoxycillin highly effective in stopping the growth and spread of bacteria in the body.

Unlike some other antibiotics, Amoxycillin is known for its broad-spectrum action, which means it targets both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is frequently used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other drugs, particularly in the management of Helicobacter pylori infections that cause peptic ulcers.

The 500mg capsule formulation allows for quick and consistent absorption into the bloodstream, making it ideal for both outpatient and inpatient care. Its safety profile is considered excellent, and it is commonly prescribed for individuals of all age groups, including children and the elderly. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes Amoxycillin on its list of essential medicines, highlighting its global importance in modern medical treatment.

It is essential to take Amoxycillin exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Incomplete or improper use may lead to antibiotic resistance, a growing global health threat. This occurs when bacteria develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. Therefore, patients must finish the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms improve earlier.

Amoxycillin is not effective against viral infections such as the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. Misuse in such cases can reduce the drug’s future effectiveness and contribute to resistance. Patients are advised to discuss any ongoing symptoms with their doctor and avoid self-medicating.

In summary, Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule is a cornerstone in the treatment of bacterial infections, with widespread use due to its effectiveness, safety, and versatility. It is crucial for patients to understand its purpose, proper usage, and potential side effects to maximize its benefits and minimize any risks.

Key Composition & Ingredients

• Amoxycillin Trihydrate equivalent to Amoxycillin 500mg: A semisynthetic derivative of penicillin, known for its bactericidal action by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Uses of Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule

• Treatment of upper and lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and tonsillitis.
• Management of urinary tract infections (UTIs), including cystitis and kidney infections.
• Effective in treating skin and soft tissue infections like abscesses, cellulitis, and infected wounds.
• Management of ear, nose, and throat infections such as otitis media, sinusitis, and pharyngitis.
• Treatment of dental infections, including periapical abscesses.
• Used with other medications for H. pylori eradication in peptic ulcer disease.
• Prescribed for bacterial endocarditis prophylaxis before dental procedures in high-risk patients.

Amoxycillin is prescribed for bacterial infections including:

• Upper respiratory tract infections (sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis)
• Lower respiratory tract infections (pneumonia, bronchitis)
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Ear infections (otitis media)
• Dental infections
• Helicobacter pylori eradication (in combination therapy)
• Lyme disease
• Prophylaxis against endocarditis in high-risk patients

Benefits of Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule

• Rapid action against a wide range of bacterial pathogens.
• High oral bioavailability for quick symptom relief.
• Safe and effective for use in adults, elderly patients, and children.
• Minimal side effects in most patients.
• Can be taken with or without meals for convenience.
• Widely available and affordable.
• Often used in hospitals and clinics as a go-to treatment.
• Broad-spectrum activity against many common bacterial pathogens
• Generally well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile
• Effective absorption and distribution throughout body tissues
• Available in multiple formulations for different patient needs
• Cost-effective compared to many newer antibiotics
• Established clinical efficacy with decades of successful use

How Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule Works

Amoxycillin works by inhibiting the synthesis of peptidoglycan, a vital component of the bacterial cell wall. This results in a weakened cell wall structure, causing the bacteria to burst (lyse) and die under normal environmental pressure. The drug acts selectively on bacterial cells, leaving human cells unharmed.

Mechanism of Action

Amoxycillin binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. These proteins are involved in the final stages of cell wall assembly. By inactivating these PBPs, Amoxycillin disrupts the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, which leads to cell lysis and death. It is particularly effective during the active multiplication phase of bacteria.

Amoxycillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. This disrupts the final cross-linking stage of peptidoglycan synthesis, compromising cell wall integrity and causing bacterial cell death. Amoxycillin is bactericidal, meaning it kills bacteria rather than just inhibiting their growth.

Dosage (Daily Dose, Missed Dose, Overdose)

• Typical adult dose: 250mg to 500mg every 8 hours or 500mg to 875mg every 12 hours, depending on infection severity.
• Missed dose: Take as soon as remembered. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.
• Overdose: May lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Severe overdose may require medical attention.

Daily Dose

• Adults and children over 40kg:
  • Standard dose: 250-500mg three times daily
  • Severe infections: 750mg-1g three times daily
  • For specific conditions like H. pylori eradication: As directed by physician
• Children (under 40kg):
  • 20-90mg/kg/day in divided doses (typically three times daily)
  • Dosage adjusted based on age, weight, and infection severity

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances, crystalluria, and neurotoxic effects. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.

Mode of Action

The primary action of Amoxycillin is bactericidal. It blocks the action of enzymes needed to build the bacterial cell wall, causing rupture and death of the bacterial cell. This mechanism is effective against bacteria in the growth phase.

How to Use Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule

Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew or crush. Take at evenly spaced intervals.

Directions for Use

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. 
• Can be taken with or without food, though taking with food may reduce stomach upset
• Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water
• Space doses evenly throughout the day (approximately every 8 hours for three times daily dosing)
• Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve before completion
• Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Side Effects

• Common: Nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, skin rash.
• Rare: Allergic reactions, severe skin blistering, or jaundice.

Common Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Rash
• Oral thrush (oral candidiasis)

Serious Side Effects (Require Immediate Medical Attention)

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis)
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellowing of eyes/skin (jaundice)
• Seizures
• Severe blistering or peeling of skin

How to Manage Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal issues: Take with food to reduce stomach upset
• Diarrhea: Stay hydrated; consult doctor if severe or contains blood
• Mild skin rash: Report to healthcare provider; may need antihistamines
• Oral thrush: Practice good oral hygiene; may need antifungal treatment

Side Effects & How to Manage Them

• Nausea or vomiting: Take with food.
• Diarrhea: Drink plenty of fluids.
• Rash: Contact your doctor if it persists.
• Allergic reaction: Seek emergency help.

Safety Advice  for Amoxycillin 500mg Capsule

Alcohol

Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may increase side effects and reduce effectiveness.

Pregnancy

FDA Category B. Generally considered safe but should be used only if clearly needed. Consult healthcare provider.

Breastfeeding

Amoxycillin passes into breast milk in small amounts. Generally considered safe, but monitor infant for potential side effects.

Driving

Usually does not affect ability to drive or operate machinery.

Kidney Function

Dose adjustment required for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min).

Liver Function

Used with caution in patients with liver disease; may need dose adjustment.

Use in Children

Safe for use in children with appropriate dose adjustments. Not recommended for infants under 3 months unless specifically prescribed.

Use in Older Patients

May require dose reduction due to potential decreased kidney function.

Allergies

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to penicillins or cephalosporins.

• Alcohol: No direct interaction, but best to avoid alcohol during infection treatment.
• Pregnancy: Generally considered safe.
• Breastfeeding: Passes into milk in small amounts; consult your doctor.
• Driving: No major effects on alertness.
• Kidney/Liver patients: Dose adjustment may be necessary.
• Children/Elderly: Safe when used as prescribed.
• Allergy: Not suitable for people allergic to penicillin.

Warnings & Precautions

• Do not use if allergic to penicillin.
• Inform your doctor about liver/kidney disease.
• Complete full course to prevent resistance.
• History of allergic reactions to antibiotics
• History of asthma, eczema, or hay fever (increased risk of allergic reactions)
• Kidney disease
• Infectious mononucleosis (increased risk of rash)
• Phenylketonuria (some formulations may contain phenylalanine)
• Prolonged use may result in superinfection
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Interactions

• Probenecid: Increases amoxycillin levels
• Allopurinol: Increased risk of skin rash
• Oral contraceptives: May reduce contraceptive effectiveness
• Anticoagulants: May increase risk of bleeding
• Methotrexate: Increased risk of methotrexate toxicity
• Tetracyclines, chloramphenicol, macrolides: May reduce effectiveness of amoxycillin

• Can interact with oral contraceptives, allopurinol, and other antibiotics.

Drug-Drug & Drug-Food Interactions

• No major food interactions. Avoid mixing with bacteriostatic antibiotics.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Amoxycillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
• History of severe allergic reactions.
• Hypersensitivity to penicillins or any components of the formulation
• History of amoxycillin-associated jaundice/hepatic dysfunction
• Infectious mononucleosis (risk of amoxycillin-induced rash)

Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category

• Category B: No evidence of risk in human studies.
• Use only under medical supervision during pregnancy.

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

• Stay hydrated and rest adequately.
• Take probiotics to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
• Avoid spicy and fatty foods if gastrointestinal discomfort occurs.
• Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading infection.
• Use protection in crowded places during illness.
• Maintain adequate hydration
• Complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve
• Probiotic-rich foods may help minimize gastrointestinal side effects
• Avoid sharing medication or using leftover antibiotics

Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine

• Effective, safe, and fast-acting against many common infections.

Doctors recommend Amoxycillin for its:

• Broad-spectrum effectiveness against common bacterial pathogens
• Established safety profile
• Good tissue penetration
• Convenient dosing schedule
• Cost-effectiveness compared to newer antibiotics

Substitutes & Alternatives

• Same class (Penicillins): Ampicillin, Amoxycillin-Clavulanate
• Different classes: Cephalexin, Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Doxycycline

Selection depends on bacterial sensitivity, infection site, patient allergies, and other factors.

• Mox 500 Capsule
• Augmentin (Amoxycillin + Clavulanic acid)
• Novamox 500

Storage Guidelines

• Store between 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C)
• Keep container tightly closed
• Protect from moisture and light
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after expiration date

• Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C.
• Keep away from sunlight and moisture.

User Feedback & Patient Concerns

Common concerns include:

• Antibiotic resistance development
• Side effects, particularly gastrointestinal issues
• Allergic reactions
• Interactions with other medications

• Most users report symptom relief within 2-3 days.
• Some mild side effects noted.

Quick Tips

• Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve
• Take at evenly spaced intervals for optimal effectiveness
• Inform your doctor of any allergic reactions to antibiotics
• Report persistent or severe diarrhea during or after treatment
• Probiotics may help reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Take with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs

• Take on time daily.
• Do not skip doses.
• Do not share medication.
• Complete full course.

Fact Box

• Chemical Class: Beta-lactam antibiotic
• Habit Forming: No
• Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic
• Action Class: Penicillin

Useful Diagnostic Tests

• Culture and sensitivity testing
• Complete blood count
• Liver function tests (for prolonged therapy)
• Kidney function tests (for patients with renal impairment)

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Urine culture
• Sputum test
• Sensitivity testing

More Information & References

For more information, consult:

• American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on antibiotic use
• World Health Organization (WHO) Essential Medicines List
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) MedlinePlus

Always consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to your condition and medical history.

• WHO Essential Medicines List
• FDA Prescribing Information
• Indian Pharmacopoeia Monograph on Amoxycillin

Disclaimer

THE CONTENTS OF THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, OR PREVENTION OF A DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION. PLEASE CONSULT A PHYSICIAN FOR THE TREATMENT AND/OR MANAGEMENT OF ANY DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION WITHOUT DELAY.