Antibiotics are commonly used by lay people to treat conditions and infections without consultation with doctors. One very common broad-spectrum antibiotic that is cheap and almost all people know is Amoxicillin.
Generic Name: Amoxicillin
Brand Name: Amoxil, Polymox
Classification: Non-narcotic analgesic, Antipyretic,Antibiotic
Uses:
- Ear, nose, and throat infections due to Streptococcus species.
- GU Infections due to Escherichia coli, Proteus miribalis, Enterococcus facecalis.
- Skin infections due to Streptococcus, S. pneumonia, Staphylococcus, or H. haemophilus
- Acute uncomplicated gonococcal infections due to Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
- In combination with omeprazole or lansoprazole to treat duodenal ulcers by eradicating Helicobacter pylori.
Actions:
This drug is a semi-synthetic broad spectrum penicillin closely related to Ampicillin. It binds to Penicillin-binding proteins in the cytoplasmic membranes of bacteria, thus inhibiting cell-wall synthesis. It also inhibits cell growth and cell division. It is better absorbed than Ampicillin.
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity
- Use of the 875mg tablet in clients with a GFR less than 30mL/minute.
Special Concerns:
- Safe use during pregnancy has not been established.
- Drug may decrease effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
Side-Effects:
- Hypersensitivity
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Gastritis
- Stomatitis
Dosage:
Per Orem: usual dose of 500mg q8h or 500mg q12h. For gonococcal infections: 3 grams single dose.
Nursing Considerations:
- Note for any hypersensitivity reaction
- Instruct clients that therapeutic regimen must be completed even if symptoms subside.
- Child’s dose should not exceed maximum adult dose.
- Clients with GFR of 10-30 mL/min should receive 250-500mg q12h.
- Monitor CBC, renal and liver function tests.
- May be taken with food.
- Antibiotic resistance may occur if used without practitioner consultation as duration of therapy may not be completed.
- Report: bleeding, sore throat, rash, diarrhea, worsening of symptoms, lack of response.
