Amoxicillin and Alcohol

Amoxicillin, one of the most commonly prescribed drugs, is used to treat bacteria infections like Helicobacter pylori infection, small intestinal infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, etc. Amoxicillin belongs to the family of penicillin and has similar bactericidal effects like ampicillin.

One should take amoxicillin after eight to twelve hours of taking the initial dose. It is important to maintain the interval as it helps maintain the medication levels within the body system. In case the drug and medication levels are not maintained, the medicine loses its ability to have a fatal effects on the bacteria. There is a myth surrounding amoxicillin and alcohol that these two may react negatively when taken together. It is thought these negative effects of amoxicillin and alcohol can lead to many potential dangers. In this article, we shall go into the details of amoxicillin and alcohol side effects.

Working of Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin belongs to a group of drugs called the aminopenicillin that are a part of beta-lactam antibiotic. These antibiotics work by stopping the bacteria from making cells walls. This eventually leads to cell lysis and bacteria to die.

If a person takes an overdose of amoxicillin, one may suffer from decreased production of urine, lowered kidney functions and kidney failure. Amoxicillin capsules, tablets and chewable tablets can be stored at room temperature. Keep the medication away from moisture and heat. Amoxicillin suspension and pediatric drops need to be refrigerated after mixing. One should discard the suspension within 14 days after being mixed.

Amoxicillin and Alcohol Side Effects
Many people will vouch for the fact that there are many negative effects of amoxicillin and alcohol. But, till date there is no scientific evidence to prove these amoxicillin and alcohol side effects. There is nothing concrete to prove that amoxicillin and alcohol will have an adverse reaction. But, to be on the safe side, it is always advisable to take amoxicillin in advanced before drinking alcohol.

Why Do I Need to Avoid Alcohol when taking Amoxicillin?
The reasons that one is advised to avoid taking amoxicillin and alcohol together is as follows. In case of a serious bacterial infection, alcohol should be avoided as it contains sugar compounds that help in growth of bacteria. One should take plenty of fluids and rest, instead of indulging in sipping alcohol. Sometimes, the side effects of amoxicillin may get exaggerated due to alcohol intake. Alcohol may even increase the symptoms of dizziness experienced by people taking amoxicillin. If you are not aware about effects of alcohol on your body, then you need to refer to article on side effects of excessive alcohol consumption.

Amoxicillin Side Effects
There are a few side effects of amoxicillin, just as it maybe seen with other antibiotics. It is not necessary that everyone who takes amoxicillin may experience these side effects. The possible side effects of amoxicillin include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Thrush
• Vaginal yeast infections
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea

Who Should Avoid Taking Amoxicillin
Anyone who is allergic to any ingredient in amoxicillin or penicillin antibiotic. You should also avoid amoxicillin if you have received or will receive an oral typhoid vaccine. If someone suffers from infections mononucleosis, one should avoid taking amoxicillin.

What You Should Tell Your Doctor Before Taking Amoxicillin?
You need to inform the health care provider regarding any other health issues one may be suffering from, such as:

• Kidney diseases like renal failure
• Phenylketonuria
• Allergies to foods, dyes and preservatives
• If you are pregnant or thinking of getting pregnant
• Breastfeeding mothers

You should also inform your health care provider regarding all the other medications that you are taking currently like prescription and non-prescription medications.

Amoxicillin is a prescription drug and any prescription drug should not be taken without doctor's advice. Alcohol tends to increase the sugar level in the body that is used as an energy source by the infectious bacteria to grow further. Thus, reducing the capacity of the drug to fight off an infection. Remember, amoxicillin is an antibiotic that is taken only to treat bacterial infection. There is no point in drinking alcohol when the whole point of fighting infection is hampered. If you are doubtful about amoxicillin and alcohol effects, you should consult your doctor regarding the same. Although there are no known adverse effects of amoxicillin and alcohol, you should take precautions. I hope this article has cleared the air regarding amoxicillin and alcohol side effects.