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Amoxicillin for Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection of the urinary system, which consists of the kidneys, bladder, urethra and ureters. UTIs are the second most common infection in humans, according to the National Institutes of Health. Women are far more likely than men to experience a urinary tract infection. Common symptoms of a UTI include pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine, a frequent urge to urinate and frequently urinating small amounts. Treatment for a urinary tract infection is typically a course of antibiotics. Amoxicillin is just one of many antibiotics that are prescribed for people with a UTI.

  1. How It Works

    • Amoxicillin is classified as a penicillin antibiotic. It works by killing bacteria, which is what causes a urinary tract infection. Amoxicillin can be used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, and is also used to treat intestinal ulcers.

    Administration

    • Most patients with a urinary tract infection will be prescribed amoxicillin to be taken orally in pill or capsule form. It does not have to be taken with food, but patients who develop an upset stomach after taking the medication should take it with a meal. As with all antibiotics, it is important to take the entire prescribed course of the drug even if you begin to feel better in a few days.

    Non-Serious Side Effects

    • Some people taking amoxicillin will experience mild side effects, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. None of these side effects is cause for concern.

    Serious Side Effects

    • In rare cases, people taking amoxicillin may experience severe side effects that could indicate a potential complication that will require medical treatment. Stop taking the medication and notify your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following: jaundice; bloody stools; severe diarrhea; unusual bruising or bleeding; stomach cramps or pain; vaginal irritation or discharge; confusion; red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin; dark urine; or fever, chills or a persistent sore throat.

    Drug Interactions

    • As with many medications, amoxicillin is known to interact with several other drugs, possibly causing dangerous reactions or increasing the likelihood of side effects. Amoxicillin may be less effective when taken with macrolide antibiotics, sulfonamides, tetracycline antibiotics and chloramphenicol. Anticoagulants and amoxicillin taken together increases the risk of bleeding. People who take methotrexate are more likely to experience side effects when it is taken with amoxicillin. Also, oral contraceptives and the live oral typhoid vaccine may be less effective when taken with amoxicillin.

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