Physicians prescribe amoxicillin as a treatment for bacterial infections--from ear and bladder infections to E. coli and salmonella. As one of the penicillin antibiotics, it should not be used for viral infections or where bacterial infection isn't likely. Although it is a wide-spectrum antibiotic, it also should not be prescribed for superinfections or pathogenic bacterial infections. Once amoxicillin treatment has begun, the medication should be taken for the full prescribed time period, even if symptoms have ceased. Amoxicillin can cause a number of side effects aside from the serious reactions for those who are allergic to penicillin medications.
Interaction with Birth Control Pills
Amoxicillin can interfere with the action of birth control pills. Compromised birth control medications could result in pregnancy, so the Drugs.com website advises using other birth control methods during a course of amoxicillin treatment.
Pseudomembranous Colitis
Amoxicillin can cause pseudomembranous colitis in those who take the antibiotic. Mayo Clinic staff state that if the amoxicillin upsets the balance of bacteria that are part of the digestive process, this inflammation of the bowel can produce severe diarrhea and dehydration, which could become life-threatening.
Gastrointestinal Difficulties
Taking amoxicillin can bring on nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and headaches. RxList.com explains that these side effects are likely to be both common and less serious than other side effects such as hypersensitivity or an allergic reaction to the medication.
Thrush
Taking amoxicillin can cause a patient to exhibit signs of a variety of mouth infections. RxList.com reports that taking amoxicillin may cause thrush (white patches in your throat and mouth) or may cause your tongue to swell. Your tongue also may look blackened when taking amoxicillin.
Skin Rash
RxList.com advises against taking amoxicillin while fighting mononucleosis because of the possibility of breaking out in a secondary infection that may manifest as a red rash.
Drug-Resistant Bacteria
If amoxicillin is prescribed too often or when there is no bacterial infection, the medication likely will be ineffective. RxList.com warns that overuse of amoxicillin or using it without positive bacterial infection could bring on drug-resistant bacteria, which could be more serious than the original malady or infection.
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