Amoxicillin & Alcohol Side Effects
A very commonly prescribed antibiotic is amoxicillin. All antibiotics come with directions, warnings, concerns and potential dangers. It is very important to take them as prescribed and follow the doctor's orders in order to avoid having any problems or adverse reactions. Drinking while on amoxicillin should be done with caution.
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What is Amoxicillin?
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Amoxicillin is considered a moderately broad spectrum antibiotic. It is in the family of penicillin and is similar to the bacterial spectrum of ampicillin. Amoxicillin is typically used for bacterial infections such as upper respiratory infections, including bronchitis, sinusitis and pneumonia. It is also a common treatment for such stomach infections known as Helicobacter Pylori Gastritis.
How to Take Amoxicillin
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Amoxicillin should be taken every eight to 12 hours. Regular intervals with the medication are important to keep the levels of medication constant in the body. If the levels do not stay constant, the medication cannot work at its optimum to kill the bacteria. If you miss a dose, the missed dose should be taken right away. Amoxicillin is a prescription drug and should be taken as directed by your health care provider. The full course of amoxicillin should be taken unless otherwise directed by your health care provider.
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Alcohol and Amoxicillin
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There is nothing to suggest that having some alcohol while on amoxicillin is harmful or will affect the antibiotic. There is no indication the two will have adverse reactions to each other; however, it is better to take the medication well in advance of drinking the alcohol to prevent any unknown alcohol side effects. This way, there is time for the antibiotic to get well absorbed into the system before you drink any alcohol.
Considerations of Drinking Alcohol While Taking Amoxicillin
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Alcohol is known for not being the best thing for your body, especially if you are sick and fighting off an infection. Although no adverse effects are known between amoxicillin and alcohol, if you are sick enough to be on an antibiotic, it is probably wise to stay clear of alcohol altogether until you are better.
Warnings Associated With Amoxicillin
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Amoxicillin is a prescription drug only. You should never take any prescription drug given to you by anyone other than a physician. You should always make your doctor aware of any new developments with your condition while on the antibiotic and you should never stop taking the medication either abruptly without telling your doctor, or before the full course is finished.
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