Teva-amoxicillin is an amoxicillin antibiotic from the penicillin group of drugs. It is used to treat and prevent bacterial infections. Amoxicillin is one of the most frequently prescribed penicillin medications because it tends to be absorbed more readily by the body than other drugs in its class. Teva is the name of the pharmaceutical company that produces this form of amoxicillin and markets it under the brand name Amoxil®.
Some of the most common uses of Teva-amoxicillin are for the treatment of throat, bladder, sinus, and ear infections. Doctors and dentists also often use the drug as a preventative measure against infections before surgery or other medical procedures. It is usually only prescribed for short-term use due to an added risk of side effects over time.
This medication is typically prescribed to be taken three times a day at intervals of about eight hours. It comes as an oral suspension, an injection, a capsule, and a chewable tablet. Dosage can vary widely, and is based on factors such as the severity of the infection and the age and overall health of the patient. The drug can be dangerous when introduced to the water supply and should not be disposed of down a sink drain or toilet. A doctor can provide guidance as to how unused medication should be discarded.
Some conditions may increase the risk of taking Teva-amoxicillin. Patients with kidney disease may need to be observed more closely while taking the drug due to an elevated risk of side effects. Individuals with mononucleosis who take the medication are at a higher risk of developing a rash from taking the drug. Women who are nursing, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant should consult a doctor before starting treatment. It can also reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
The most common side effects of Teva-amoxicillin are mild and need only be discussed with a doctor if they persist or become more severe. They include diarrhea, headache, or vaginal discharge and itching. Some patients may also have white patches or soreness on the tongue or in the mouth.
More serious, but less common side effects of Teva-amoxicillin include light-headedness, joint pain, fever, or irregular breathing. A skin condition known as the “amoxicillin rash” may also appear on a small percentage of patients, particularly children. Signs of allergy to the drug include breathing difficulties, hives, or itching. On rare occasions a patient may also experience seizures, severe stomach or abdominal cramps, and depression. These symptoms should receive immediate medical attention.
