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Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used for bacterial infections. It only works against bacteria, so take it only when it has been prescribed for you, and never use anyone else’s antibiotics. Tell your doctor if you have ever reacted to penicillin.
What are the common side effects?
Skin rash, nausea and diarrhoea can occur. Taking it after a meal or snack may help with nausea. Drink plenty of fluids if you have diarrhoea.
Can it affect the contraceptive pill?
Severe diarrhoea, or diarrhoea lasting more than 24 hours, may make the pill less effective. Check the pill packet, or ask your pharmacist.
What is a delayed allergic reaction?
A reaction can occur days after starting treatment, with a rash and sometimes fever, joint pain or swollen glands. Seek medical advice about a new rash; get emergency help for breathing difficulty or swelling of the face or throat.
When should I contact a doctor?
Stop and contact a doctor for severe diarrhoea or diarrhoea with blood or mucus, pale stools, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bruising, or a rash with a high temperature. Some of these can occur up to 2 months after finishing the medicine.
When is it an emergency?
Call your local emergency number (000 in Australia) for sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, trouble breathing, or fainting.
Doses and formulations vary. Follow your prescriber, pharmacist and the leaflet supplied with your exact medicine. In Australia, call 000 for a medical emergency or the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for suspected poisoning or overdose. Outside Australia, use your local emergency and poison-information services.
Source: NHS: Side effects of amoxicillin. General education does not replace individual medical advice. Updated November 2026.
Read more in our Health Guides. For website or catalogue questions, contact support; urgent medical concerns need a healthcare service.