Side Effects of amoxicillin: A Synthesis of Findings from 23 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Amoxicillin is a widely used antibiotic for treating bacterial infections. However, its effectiveness is accompanied by concerns about side effects. This article examines the current state of side effects and future challenges based on multiple research data on amoxicillin.

Multiple studies have demonstrated that amoxicillin is effective in treating bacterial infections, 3 , 1 , 5 , 13 , 12 , 9 , 6 , 15 , 23 , 4 , 20 , 14 , 2 , 7 , 11 , , 18 , 8 , 16 , 22 , 19 , 17 , 10 . On the other hand, side effects such as allergic reactions, digestive symptoms, psychoneurological symptoms, and liver dysfunction have been reported. Additionally, amoxicillin has been suggested to promote the emergence of resistant bacteria. Therefore, it is important to use amoxicillin appropriately according to the doctor's instructions.

Reasons for Side Effects

Amoxicillin side effects are thought to occur when the drug itself is broken down and metabolized in the body, converting into various substances that affect the body's cells and tissues. Specifically, the following mechanisms are considered.

  • Allergic reactions: The molecular structure of amoxicillin can be recognized as a foreign substance by the human immune system, triggering allergic reactions. This is thought to be because amoxicillin binds to proteins in the body, making it easier for the immune system to recognize.
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms: Amoxicillin can alter the gut microbiota, leading to digestive symptoms such as indigestion and diarrhea. This is thought to be because amoxicillin kills beneficial bacteria in the gut.
  • Psychoneurological symptoms: Amoxicillin can affect the central nervous system, causing psychoneurological symptoms such as dizziness, headache, insomnia, and anxiety. This is thought to be because amoxicillin affects neurotransmitters in the brain.
  • Liver dysfunction: Amoxicillin can put a strain on the liver during the process of being metabolized by the liver. As a result, liver dysfunction may occur.

Common Side Effects

Allergic Reactions

One of the most common side effects of amoxicillin is allergic reactions. This has been reported in studies such as 15 and 10 . Symptoms vary widely, including skin rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can also cause a life-threatening condition called anaphylactic shock.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Amoxicillin can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms. This has been reported in studies such as 12 and 11 . Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms may occur because amoxicillin kills beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

Psychoneurological Symptoms

Amoxicillin can also cause psychoneurological symptoms. This has been reported in studies such as 2 . Specific symptoms include dizziness, headache, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and hallucinations. These symptoms may occur because amoxicillin affects neurotransmitters in the brain.

Liver Dysfunction

Amoxicillin can also cause liver dysfunction. This has been reported in studies such as 11 . Liver dysfunction may occur because amoxicillin puts a strain on the liver during the process of being metabolized by the liver.

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Allergic Reactions

If you suspect an allergic reaction to amoxicillin, you should stop taking it immediately and consult a doctor. Treatment for allergic reactions may involve antihistamines or steroids. In severe cases, treatment for anaphylactic shock may be necessary.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

If you experience gastrointestinal symptoms from taking amoxicillin, consult your doctor. Dietary and drug therapy may be used to alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. For example, try to eat easily digestible foods, avoiding dairy products and fatty foods. Also, taking an intestinal regulator is effective if you have severe diarrhea.

Psychoneurological Symptoms

If you experience psychoneurological symptoms from taking amoxicillin, consult your doctor. Psychoneurological symptoms may improve if you stop taking amoxicillin. However, if symptoms do not improve, drug therapy may be necessary.

Liver Dysfunction

If you suspect liver dysfunction from taking amoxicillin, you should stop taking it immediately and consult your doctor. Treatment for liver dysfunction may involve drug therapy to reduce the burden on the liver.

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities of Studies

Many studies have confirmed that amoxicillin is effective in treating bacterial infections. Also, side effects such as allergic reactions, digestive symptoms, and psychoneurological symptoms have been reported.

Differences in Studies

The frequency and severity of amoxicillin side effects vary across studies. This is thought to be due to differences in the ages, genders, health conditions, dosages, and durations of treatment of the study subjects. Also, the frequency and severity of side effects may vary depending on the research methodology.

Precautions for Practical Applications

Amoxicillin is an effective drug for treating bacterial infections, but it also carries the risk of side effects. Therefore, the following precautions should be taken when taking amoxicillin.

  • Take amoxicillin as directed by your doctor.
  • Do not take it on your own.
  • Before taking it, tell your doctor about any allergies or other medications you are taking.
  • If you feel unwell while taking it, consult your doctor immediately.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on the side effects of amoxicillin is still not extensive. Therefore, there are still many unknowns about the mechanisms of amoxicillin side effects, risk factors, and appropriate countermeasures.

Future Research Directions

Research on the side effects of amoxicillin needs to be further advanced. In particular, the following research is needed.

  • Research to elucidate the mechanisms of amoxicillin side effects.
  • Research to identify risk factors for amoxicillin side effects.
  • Research to develop countermeasures to prevent and reduce amoxicillin side effects.
  • Research to develop countermeasures to suppress the emergence of amoxicillin-resistant bacteria.

Conclusion

Amoxicillin is an effective drug for treating bacterial infections, but it also carries the risk of side effects. It is important to use amoxicillin appropriately according to your doctor's instructions and to be aware of side effects. It is hoped that future research will deepen our understanding of amoxicillin side effects and enable safer use.

Literature analysis of 23 papers
Positive Content
17
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
5
Article Type
5
2
2
5
22
1.

Novel Antimicrobial Treatment Strategy Based on Drug Delivery Systems for Acute Otitis Media.

Author: KonoMasamitsu, UmarNafisa K, TakedaSaori, OhtaniMakiko, MurakamiDaichi, SakataniHideki, KanekoFumie, NanushajDenisa, HotomiMuneki

AOM treatment
drug delivery system
AOM treatment failure

This review discusses novel antimicrobial treatment strategies based on drug delivery systems (DDS) for acute otitis media (AOM). DDS formulations have the potential to achieve sufficient antimicrobial concentrations in the middle ear for a single dose, providing an attractive future treatment option.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

2.

Antibiomania: a case report of clarithromycin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid induced manic episodes separately.

Author: MeszarosEdith Paula, StancuCatheline, CostanzaAlessandra, BessonMarie, SarasinFrançois, BondolfiGuido, AmbrosettiJulia

Antibiomania

A brief manic episode was suspected to be induced by clarithromycin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in a patient with no psychiatric history. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for managing psychiatric side effects related to antibiotics.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

5.

Antibiotics for lower respiratory tract infection in children presenting in primary care: ARTIC-PC RCT.

Author: LittlePaul, FrancisNick A, StuartBeth, O'ReillyGilly, ThompsonNatalie, BecqueTaeko, HayAlastair D, WangKay, SharlandMichael, HarndenAnthony, YaoGuiqing, RafteryJames, ZhuShihua, LittleJoseph, HookhamCharlotte, RowleyKate, EudenJoanne, HarmanKim, CoenenSamuel, ReadRobert C, WoodsCatherine, ButlerChristopher C, FaustSaul N, LeydonGeraldine, WanMandy, HoodKerenza, WhitehurstJane, Richards-HallSamantha, SmithPeter, ThomasMichael, MooreMichael, VerheijTheo

Antimicrobial resistance

Antibiotic resistance is a significant global health concern. This review highlights the lack of robust evidence supporting the effectiveness of antibiotics in treating uncomplicated lower respiratory tract infections in children. It emphasizes the need for more research, particularly focused on key clinical subgroups where antibiotic prescribing is common.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Combination of Amoxicillin 3000 mg and Probenecid Versus 1500 mg Amoxicillin Monotherapy for Treating Syphilis in Patients With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: An Open-Label, Randomized, Controlled, Non-Inferiority Trial.

Author: AndoNaokatsu, MizushimaDaisuke, OmataKazumi, NemotoTakashi, InamuraNatsumi, HiramotoSaori, TakanoMisao, AokiTakahiro, WatanabeKoji, UemuraHaruka, ShiojiriDaisuke, YanagawaYasuaki, TanumaJunko, TeruyaKatsuji, KikuchiYoshimi, GatanagaHiroyuki, OkaShinichi

Fewer side effects
High efficacy

This randomized controlled trial compared 1500 mg low-dose amoxicillin monotherapy with the combination of 3000 mg amoxicillin and probenecid for treating syphilis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The study found that amoxicillin-based regimens are effective for treating syphilis in patients with HIV infection. The study found high serological cure rates within 12 months for both low-dose amoxicillin and combination regimens. No significant side effects were detected. Non-inferiority of low-dose amoxicillin compared with amoxicillin plus probenecid overall and for early syphilis was not confirmed. Therefore, amoxicillin monotherapy could be a good alternative to intramuscular benzathine penicillin G with fewer side effects. However, further studies comparing with benzathine penicillin G in different populations and with larger sample sizes are needed.

Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

7.

Long-Term Use of Amoxicillin Is Associated with Changes in Gene Expression and DNA Methylation in Patients with Low Back Pain and Modic Changes.

Author: VigelandMaria Dehli, FlåmSiri Tennebø, VigelandMagnus Dehli, EspelandAnsgar, ZucknickManuela, WigemyrMonica, BråtenLars Christian Haugli, GjefsenElisabeth, ZwartJohn-Anker, StorheimKjersti, PedersenLinda Margareth, SelmerKaja, LieBenedicte Alexandra, GervinKristina, The Aim Study Group

Long-term antibiotic side effects

Long-term amoxicillin treatment for low back pain with Modic changes has unrecognized side effects. The study found that amoxicillin treatment caused changes in gene expression and DNA methylation, which lasted long after treatment ended.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

8.

Effects of early-life antibiotics on the developing infant gut microbiome and resistome: a randomized trial.

Author: ReymanMarta, van HoutenMarlies A, WatsonRebecca L, ChuMei Ling J N, ArpKayleigh, de WaalWouter J, SchieringIrene, PlötzFrans B, WillemsRob J L, van SchaikWillem, SandersElisabeth A M, BogaertDebby

Antimicrobial resistance
Gut microbiome disruption

Early-onset neonatal sepsis (sEONS) is a serious infection that can occur in the first week of life. This study investigated the effects of three commonly prescribed intravenous antibiotic combinations on gut microbiome development and antimicrobial resistance in infants with sEONS. The authors found that all three antibiotic combinations significantly altered the gut microbiome composition and increased the abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes. The effects were most pronounced with amoxicillin + cefotaxime and least pronounced with penicillin + gentamicin. These findings suggest that the choice of empirical antibiotics for sEONS can have a significant impact on the developing gut microbiome and the selection of antimicrobial resistance.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

9.

Pharmacovigilance network as an additional tool for the surveillance of antimicrobial resistance.

Author: HabarugiraJean Marie Vianney, FiguerasAlbert

Surveillance of AMR

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant public health concern. This study explored the potential role of Pharmacovigilance databases in monitoring AMR. The study found that Pharmacovigilance databases can play a valuable role in AMR surveillance.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

10.

The Emerging Role of the Innate Immune Response in Idiosyncratic Drug Reactions.

Author: SernoskieSamantha Christine, JeeAlison, UetrechtJack Paul

Idiosyncratic drug reactions

Idiosyncratic drug reactions (IDRs) are adverse effects that are not predictable from a drug's known pharmacology. This review focuses on the role of the innate immune system in initiating IDRs, suggesting that understanding the early stages of immune activation is crucial for drug development and risk assessment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

12.

Adverse events of metronidazole and amoxicillin: Retrospective analysis of a large data set of five randomized clinical trials.

Author: Retamal-ValdesBelen, TavaresAna Paula Laranjeira, MoniqueSarah, Pereira da SilvaHélio Doyle, MestnikMaria Josefa, DuartePoliana Mendes, MirandaTamires S, BorgesIvan, SoaresGeisla Mary Silva, FaveriMarcelo, Castro Dos SantosNidia, GraçasYasmin Teixeira das, SoutoMaria Luisa Silveira, GiudicissiMarcela, RomitoGiuseppe Alexandre, SaraivaLuciana, PannutiClaudio Mendes, FigueiredoLuciene C, FeresMagda

Periodontal treatment
Diarrhea
Discomfort
Excessive sleepiness
Metallic taste
Weakness

Metronidazole (MTZ) + amoxicillin (AMX) treatment in periodontal therapy is associated with side effects, most commonly diarrhoea and metallic taste. Diabetes, age, and gender are significant risk factors for experiencing adverse events.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

13.

Antibiotic prophylaxis in orthognathic surgery: an overview of systematic reviews.

Author: GilA P S, HaasO L, Machado-FernándezA, Muñoz-PereiraM E, VelasquesB D, da RosaB M, FavoretoA X P, de OliveiraR B

Infection prevention
Orthognathic surgery
Headache
Nausea
Pain
Skin rash
Swelling
Vomiting

Long-term antibiotic therapy reduces the risk of surgical site infection in orthognathic surgery, but the optimal regimen and duration remain uncertain.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

14.

Inhibition of <i>Acinetobacter baumannii</i> Biofilm Formation Using Different Treatments of Silica Nanoparticles.

Author: NatshehIyad Y, ElkhaderMallak T, Al-BakheitAla'a A, AlsalehMajd M, El-EswedBassam I, HoseinNedaa F, AlbadawiDuaa K

Amoxicillin efficacy
Biofilm inhibition

This study investigated the effectiveness of novel silica nanoparticles in inhibiting biofilm formation by <i>Acinetobacter baumannii</i>. Silica nanoparticles, especially when combined with amoxicillin, showed promising results in reducing biofilm formation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

[A prospective randomized comparative study of the efficacy and safety of a two-week bismuth-based quadrotherapy of <i> Helicobacter pylori </i> infection with the inclusion of the probiotic containing Bifidobacterium longum BB-46 and <i> Enterococcus faecium ENCfa-68 </i>].

Author: YakovenkoE P, StrokovaT V, IakovenkoA V, IvanovA N, SoluyanovaI P, VasilyevN N

High eradication rate
Reduced side effects
None

This prospective randomized study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a two-week bismuth-based quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection with and without the inclusion of the probiotic Bifiform. The eradication rate exceeded 90% in both groups, but the inclusion of Bifiform reduced the frequency of adverse events and improved patient compliance.

Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : Russian

18.

Efficacy and Safety of Vonoprazan and Amoxicillin Dual Therapy for Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Author: ZhangWen-Lin, LinBo-Shen, LiYue-Yue, DingYu-Ming, HanZhong-Xue, JiRui

H. pylori eradication

Vonoprazan, a novel potassium-competitive acid blocker, demonstrated strong acid suppression and efficacy in eradicating Helicobacter pylori. This meta-analysis suggests that vonoprazan/amoxicillin dual therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for H. pylori eradication.

Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

19.

Efficacy of 14-day concomitant quadruple therapy and 14-day high-dose dual therapy on <i>H. pylori</i> eradication.

Author: YadollahiBehsood, Valizadeh ToosiSeyed Mohammad, BariZohreh, FakheriHafez, MalekiIradj, TaghvaeiTarang, HosseiniVahid, KazemiArash, Shokri-AfraHajar

Effective H. pylori treatment

Fourteen days concomitant quadruple therapy was as effective as 10 days sequential therapy for H. pylori eradication.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

20.

Rabeprazole plus amoxicillin dual therapy is equally effective to bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication in central China: A single-center, prospective, open-label, randomized-controlled trial.

Author: ShaoQiao-Qiao, YuXue-Chun, YuMiao, MaJing, ZhaoJun-Bo, YuanLin, QiYa-Bin, HuRuo-Bing, WeiPei-Ru, XiaoWei, LanLing, JiaBai-Ling, ZhangLian-Zhong, DingSong-Ze

H. pylori eradication

Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) treatment. This study investigates the effectiveness of high-dose dual therapy with rabeprazole and amoxicillin or furazolidone as a first-line treatment for H. pylori eradication in a region with high infection rates. The study aims to determine factors influencing the eradication rate and explore the potential of this approach in addressing antibiotic resistance.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

21.

A "new" option in Helicobacter pylori eradication: High-dose amoxicillin dual therapy outperforms bismuth quadruple therapy in a high dual resistance setting.

Author: Macedo SilvaVítor, Lima CapelaTiago, FreitasMarta, Boal CarvalhoPedro, MagalhãesJoana, CotterJosé

HP eradication

This study compares the efficacy of bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) and high-dose amoxicillin dual therapy (HDADT) for Helicobacter pylori eradication.

Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

22.

Doxycycline and minocycline in Helicobacter pylori treatment: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: ZhaoJixiang, ZouYunzhi, LiKe, HuangXin, NiuChangping, WangZikang, ZhaoShuyang, ZhangYizhen, SongConghua, XieYong

H. pylori treatment

This systematic review and meta-analysis assess the efficacy and safety of semisynthetic tetracycline regimens in treating Helicobacter pylori infection. The study considers the decreasing eradication rate and increasing antibiotic resistance trends.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

23.

Evaluation of Self-Medication with Antibiotics in Primary Care Clinics in Palestine.

Author: NaseefHani, Joza'Dana, AwawdehAhlam, HasanAlaa, AbukhalilAbdallah Damin, Al-ShamiNi'meh, RabbaAbdullah

Antibiotic awareness
Antibiotic self-medication

This study aimed to evaluate the level of antibiotic self-medication among patients who visited primary care clinics in Palestine. It finds that self-medication with antibiotics is a common practice in Palestine, regardless of socioeconomic or educational status.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

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