For the treatment of infections of the ear, nose, and throat, the genitourinary tract, the skin and skin structure, and the lower respiratory tract due to susceptible (only b-lactamase-negative) strains of <i>Streptococcus</i> spp. (a- and b-hemolytic strains only), <i>S. pneumoniae</i>, <i>Staphylococcus</i> spp., <i>H. influenzae</i>, <i>E. coli</i>, <i>P. mirabilis</i>, or <i>E. faecalis</i>. Also for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated gonorrhea (ano-genital and urethral infections) due to <i>N. gonorrhoeae</i> (males and females).
Amoxicillin binds to penicillin-binding protein 1A (PBP-1A) located inside the bacterial cell well. Penicillins acylate the penicillin-sensitive transpeptidase C-terminal domain by opening the lactam ring. This inactivation of the enzyme prevents the formation of a cross-link of two linear peptidoglycan strands, inhibiting the third and last stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis. Cell lysis is then mediated by bacterial cell wall autolytic enzymes such as autolysins; it is possible that amoxicllin interferes with an autolysin inhibitor.
Serious toxicity is unlikely following large doses of amoxicillin. Acute ingestion of large doses of amoxicillin may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Acute oliguric renal failure and hematuria may occur following large doses.
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration.
61.3 minutes
Most of the amoxicillin is excreted unchanged in the urine; its excretion can be delayed by concurrent administration of probenecid.