What it means
One of the most often prescribed antibiotican-tee-by-OT-ikA drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.anti- againstbi/o life-ic relating toFull entry s. It is used for ear infections, strep throat, sinus infections, some pneumonias and urinary tract infections, and with other drugs to treat the stomach germ H. pylori. It is often combined with clavulanate (Augmentin) so it works against more bacteria. Its most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea and rash.
For the nurse
Ask about a penicillin allergy before the first dose and watch for hives, swelling or trouble breathing. Teach the client to take every dose for the full course, and to report severe or bloody diarrhea, which can mean C. difficilesee dif-uh-SEELClostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).Full entry .
At a glance
| Drug class | penicillin (aminopenicillin) antibiotic |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Amoxil; Augmentin (with clavulanate) |
| Spanish | amoxicilina |
| Also written | Amoxil, Trimox |
Related terms
C. difficile
Clostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).
allergy
A reaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless to most people.
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.
anaphylaxis
A sudden, severe allergic reaction that affects the whole body.