Amoxicillin, a penicillin-class antibiotic commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections, is available in multiple forms, including a liquid suspension. This oral suspension provides a flexible option for patients who cannot take solid medications like capsules or tablets. The drug functions by interfering with the bacteria’s ability to build cell walls, which leads to the organism’s death. This form ensures that a wide range of patients can effectively receive the medication for infections affecting the ears, nose, throat, or skin.
Why Amoxicillin Suspension Is Used
The primary reason for prescribing amoxicillin as an oral suspension is its suitability for pediatric patients, particularly infants and young children. These patients often lack the physical ability to safely swallow tablets or capsules, making a flavored liquid preparation the only viable means of administration. The liquid form prevents choking hazards and ensures the child receives the full, correct dose.
The suspension is also an option for adults and older patients who experience difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or who rely on feeding tubes. The liquid can be easily administered through a tube or consumed directly, bypassing the need to swallow a pill. Amoxicillin liquid is available in different strengths, such as 125 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL, and 400 mg/5 mL, allowing healthcare providers to tailor the dosage precisely to the patient’s weight and the specific infection.
Preparation and Storage of Liquid Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin suspension is typically dispensed by the pharmacy as a dry powder that must be mixed with a specific volume of water, a process known as reconstitution. This is done because amoxicillin is not chemically stable for an extended period once it is in liquid form. The pharmacist usually performs this mixing to ensure the correct concentration is achieved.
The reconstituted liquid is a suspension, meaning the particles are dispersed but do not fully dissolve. Therefore, the bottle must be shaken well before every use to ensure a uniform distribution of the drug. Once mixed, the suspension’s shelf life is limited, commonly to 10 to 14 days, even when stored correctly.
For most common formulations, the medication requires refrigeration and must be stored between 2°C and 8°C to maintain its effectiveness. Always check the label for specific instructions, as improper storage can cause the antibiotic to degrade, rendering it ineffective. Any unused portion of the suspension must be discarded after the designated expiration period.
Guidelines for Safe Dosing
Accurate measurement is paramount to ensure the patient receives the prescribed therapeutic dose. Caregivers should use only the specialized measuring tool provided by the pharmacy, such as an oral syringe or a dosing spoon, which are marked with precise volume increments. Household spoons are not standardized and can lead to under-dosing or over-dosing, compromising treatment effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
The full course of amoxicillin must be completed as prescribed, even if symptoms begin to improve within a few days. Stopping the antibiotic early can allow surviving bacteria to multiply and potentially develop resistance. The suspension should be taken at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day to maintain a consistent drug level in the bloodstream.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as it is remembered, unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the patient should resume the regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for the one that was missed. The medication can generally be taken with or without food, though taking it with a meal can help reduce stomach upset.