Apimox
Generic Name
Amoxicillin
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| apimox 250 mg capsule | ৳ 3.45 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medicine is only effective against bacterial infections and does not work for viral infections like the common cold or flu.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 250 mg to 500 mg orally every 8 hours, or 500 mg to 875 mg every 12 hours, depending on the severity and type of infection. Max dose is 4.5 g/day.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but renal function should be assessed and dosage adjusted if necessary.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction is required for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min). For example, 250 mg every 12-24 hours.
How to Take
Take the capsule orally with or without food. Swallow whole with water. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better.
Mechanism of Action
Amoxicillin is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan polymers that are essential for bacterial cell wall strength and rigidity. This leads to cell lysis and bacterial death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects usually within 30-60 minutes.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine by active tubular secretion and glomerular filtration. About 60% of an oral dose is excreted unchanged within 6 hours.
Half life
Approximately 1-1.5 hours in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1-2 hours after oral administration. Food generally has little effect on absorption.
Metabolism
Approximately 10-25% of the dose is metabolized to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, any other penicillin, or to any of the excipients.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other beta-lactam agent (e.g., cephalosporins, carbapenems, monobactams).
- Infectious mononucleosis (due to increased risk of rash).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases and prolongs amoxicillin blood levels by decreasing renal tubular secretion.
Allopurinol
May increase the incidence of skin rash, especially in patients with hyperuricemia.
Methotrexate
May increase methotrexate toxicity due to reduced renal clearance.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives (advise additional contraceptive methods).
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May prolong prothrombin time; INR monitoring may be necessary.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rarely, convulsions. In case of overdose, discontinue the drug and manage symptomatically with supportive measures. Gastric lavage may be considered soon after ingestion. Amoxicillin can be removed from circulation by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus. However, use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under doctor's supervision. Amoxicillin is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during lactation, monitor the infant for potential side effects like diarrhea or rash.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to amoxicillin, any other penicillin, or to any of the excipients.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other beta-lactam agent (e.g., cephalosporins, carbapenems, monobactams).
- Infectious mononucleosis (due to increased risk of rash).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases and prolongs amoxicillin blood levels by decreasing renal tubular secretion.
Allopurinol
May increase the incidence of skin rash, especially in patients with hyperuricemia.
Methotrexate
May increase methotrexate toxicity due to reduced renal clearance.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives (advise additional contraceptive methods).
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May prolong prothrombin time; INR monitoring may be necessary.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rarely, convulsions. In case of overdose, discontinue the drug and manage symptomatically with supportive measures. Gastric lavage may be considered soon after ingestion. Amoxicillin can be removed from circulation by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus. However, use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under doctor's supervision. Amoxicillin is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during lactation, monitor the infant for potential side effects like diarrhea or rash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from manufacturing date, depending on the manufacturer.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Amoxicillin has undergone extensive clinical trials since its development, establishing its efficacy and safety profile for a wide range of bacterial infections. Ongoing surveillance and post-marketing studies continue to monitor its use.
Lab Monitoring
- Regular assessment of renal, hepatic, and hematopoietic function during prolonged therapy.
- Monitoring for signs of superinfection.
- INR monitoring if co-administered with oral anticoagulants.
Doctor Notes
- Always consider bacterial susceptibility testing where appropriate before initiating therapy.
- Adjust dosage in patients with renal impairment.
- Counsel patients on completing the full course of antibiotics to prevent resistance.
- Be vigilant for signs of severe allergic reactions, especially in patients with a history of penicillin allergy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not save unused medicine for future infections.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Amoxicillin generally does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or allergic reactions, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.
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