Antibiotic (Penicillin-type)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria that cause infections in your body. It stops the bacteria from building their protective walls, which causes them to die off.
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, resulting in cell wall disruption and bactericidal activity against susceptible gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the one you missed.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of amoxicillin even if you feel better after a few days, as stopping early can make the bacteria resistant and the infection harder to treat next time. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, not roadside vendors or market sellers, as fake and expired antibiotics are common in Nigeria. Do not share your antibiotics with family or friends, as the dose and duration may not be right for them.
Methotrexate (used for arthritis and some cancers): amoxicillin can increase its side effects. Blood thinners like warfarin: amoxicillin may increase the risk of bleeding. Some birth control pills may become less effective when taking amoxicillin, so use additional protection. Alcohol does not directly interact, but it can weaken your immune system and slow recovery, so it is best to avoid it while on antibiotics.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Amoxicillin with your other drugs?
Amoxicillin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but always consult your doctor before taking it to be sure it is appropriate for your situation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in a car or near a window. Keep capsules and tablets in their original container. If you have the liquid suspension, store it in the fridge after mixing and use it within 7 to 14 days. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.