Because bacteria can develop an immunity to antibiotics, the search for new antibiotics is constant. In 1981, amoxicillin was patented by SmithKline Beecham as a partially synthetic antibiotic. In 1998, amoxicillin became approved for antibiotic use. After its approval, amoxicillin grew in popularity because of its ability to be absorbed into the body easier than most other antibiotics. It continues to be a popular choice among physicians.
Bacterial Infections
The most common use for amoxicillin is for bacterial infections. Once the prescription is introduced to the invading bacteria in the body, it disables the bacterium's cell wall. Without the cell wall operating correctly, the bacteria die. To date, amoxicillin has been used in the treatment of multiple disorders including pertussis, bronchitis, cellulitis, clostridium infections, pneumonia, diphtheria, e. coli, gonorrhea, respiratory tract infections, pharyngitis, staph infections, strep infections and salmonella.
Ulcers
Amoxicillin can also be combined with other medications to treat ulcers, especially duodenal ulcers. This can be done through either double therapy or triple therapy. Double therapy involves the use of amoxicillin with lansoprazole, which is used to help prevent the stomach from creating gastric acids. Triple therapy involves the use of amoxicillin, lansoprazole and clarithromycin, which like amoxicillin is a prescription antibiotic.
Side Effects
The use of amoxicillin for any reason comes with a long list of possible side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Common side effects include stomach issues (such as pain, nausea or vomiting), swollen tongue, headache and thrush. More rare, as well as more serious side effects include, fever, red blistering rash, bloody diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, unusual behavior (such as confusion), hives, swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, blackouts and seizures. Many of the more rare side effects are a possible sign of allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention.
