Bacterial infections including chest infections and pneumonia, ear infections, sinusitis, tonsillitis, urinary tract infections, dental abscesses and some skin infections. It is also part of the combination treatment used to clear Helicobacter pylori from the stomach.

Amoxicillin blocks the enzymes bacteria use to build their cell wall. Without a complete wall the growing bacterium cannot hold its shape against its own internal pressure and bursts, which kills it rather than simply slowing it down.

Nausea, diarrhoea and a skin rash. Thrush in the mouth or vagina can follow a course. Diarrhoea that is severe, watery or bloody, or that starts after the course has finished, needs medical attention rather than an anti-diarrhoeal.

Do not take amoxicillin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin; tell the prescriber about any previous rash, swelling or breathing trouble with an antibiotic. Finish the full course even once you feel better, and never use a leftover course for a new illness. The dose is reduced in kidney disease. Amoxicillin is a prescription medicine in Pakistan.