Amoxicillin Dosage: What You Need to Know

Amoxicillin is a common antibiotic, but the right dose depends on age, the infection you’re fighting, and how your kidneys work. Getting the dose right helps the medicine work fast and cuts down side‑effects.

Typical doses for adults

For most infections, doctors start adults on 500 mg every 8 hours or 875 mg every 12 hours. Severe infections like pneumonia may need 1 g every 8 hours. The total daily amount usually stays under 3 g.

If you have kidney problems, the doctor will lower the dose or spread it out over a longer interval. Always tell your doctor about any kidney issues before starting treatment.

How to dose children

Kids get amoxicillin based on weight, not age. The usual range is 20–40 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into two or three doses. For a 15 kg child, that works out to about 300–600 mg a day, split into three doses of 100–200 mg each.

Some infections, like ear infections, use a lower end of the range, while strep throat or sinus infections might use the higher end. Again, if the child has kidney issues, the doctor will adjust the dose.

When you pick up the prescription, check the label for the exact amount and how often to take it. If the label says “take 1 tablet every 12 hours,” that means two doses a day, not three.

Practical tips for taking amoxicillin

Take amoxicillin with a full glass of water. Food doesn’t usually affect how it works, but taking it with food can lessen stomach upset. If you’re on a high‑dose schedule, set an alarm so you don’t miss a dose.

If you forget a dose and it’s less than 4 hours before the next one, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one – don’t double up.

Finish the entire prescribed course, even if you feel better after a few days. Stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant.

When to call your doctor

Most side effects are mild: nausea, diarrhea, or a rash. If you get a severe rash, swelling, or trouble breathing, seek medical help right away – that could be an allergic reaction.

Also, call the doctor if you don’t see any improvement after 3–4 days, or if the infection seems to get worse. Sometimes the bug is resistant and needs a different antibiotic.

Remember, amoxicillin works best when you follow the exact dose and timing your doctor gave you. Keep the bottle handy, note the date you started the medication, and track any side effects you notice. This simple routine helps you get rid of the infection quickly and safely.