Amoxil/Amoxil Forte Special Precautions

Before initiating therapy with Amoxil, careful inquiry should be made concerning previous hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins or cephalosporins. Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactoid) reactions have been reported in patients on penicillin therapy. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to β-lactam antibiotics (see Contraindications). If an allergic reaction occurs, Amoxil should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted. Serious anaphylactic reactions require immediate emergency treatment with epinephrine, oxygen, IV steroids, and airway management, including intubation, should also be administered as indicated.
Erythematous (morbilliform) rashes have been associated with glandular fever in patients receiving amoxicillin. Amoxil should be avoided if glandular fever is suspected.
Prolonged use may also occasionally result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms.
Dosage should be adjusted in patients with renal impairment (see Dosage & Administration).
Pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with nearly all of antibacterial agents, including amoxicillin, and may range in severity from mild to life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to consider this diagnosis in patients who present with diarrhea subsequent to the administration of antibacterial agents. As with any potent drug, periodic assessment of renal, hepatic and hematopoietic function should be made during prolonged therapy.
Effects on the Ability to Drive or Operate Machinery: Adverse effects on the ability to drive or operate machinery have not been observed.
Use in pregnancy: Animal studies with Amoxil have shown no teratogenic effects. Amoxil has been in extensive clinical use since 1972 and its suitability in human pregnancy has been well documented in clinical studies. When antibiotic therapy is required during pregnancy, Amoxil may be considered appropriate when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks associated with treatment.
Use in lactation: Penicillins have been shown to be excreted in human milk. Amoxicillin use by nursing mothers may lead to sensitization of infants. Caution should be exercised when amoxicillin is administered to a nursing woman.