Cipmox (amoxicillin) is a generic antibiotic in the penicillin family of drugs. The medication destroys a wide variety of susceptible bacteria, preventing or healing infections.

Cipmox can be used in all ages; however, younger children typically require smaller doses, which may not be available in the Cipmox brand. Speak with a doctor about dosage and frequency of administration.

It's also important to note that children are more likely than adults to experience an allergic reaction to penicillin. Though less likely to occur, allergic reactions are a concern among adults as well. Those who are unsure about allergic reactions may have it tested for by a doctor prior to starting treatment; patients should also be closely monitored for the first few days of treatment. There are numerous alternative products if allergic reactions are a concern.

Conditions Treated

Cipmox is widely used to treat a variety of common childhood and adult infections, including:

• Middle ear, nose or throat infections
• Bronchitis or pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Lyme disease
• Salmonella
• Septicemia
• Tooth or gum abcesses

The medication is effective against numerous other types of infections as well; the above are simply the more common ones.

Cipmox is also used as a preventative measure, on its own or along with other medications. It is rarely used to prevent infections in children, but it can happen in some circumstances. Cipmox is used to prevent infections:

• After surgery
• Prior to dental work
• In individuals without spleens
• Prior to or during exposure to anthrax
• In individuals at risk of recurring duodenal ulcers

Regardless of whether using Cipmox to treat or prevent infection, it's very important that treatment is completed. Regularly skipping doses or stopping treatment early---even if feeling fine---increases risk of infection and contributes to resistant bacteria.

Likewise it is not advisable to buy Cipmox to treat an undiagnosed condition; treatment is not effective on all types of bacteria, and may even cause further complications.

Taking Cipmox

Cipmox comes in capsules of 250 or 500 mg strengths. It is best taken with a glass of fluid 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Cipmox capsules should be swallowed whole. Capsules of other brands may permit opening of the capsule and sprinkling contents in fluid or on soft foods. There are also other formulations of amoxicillin available---oral solutions, chewable tablets, syrups and so forth; these may be preferable for young children and adults who have difficulty swallowing pills.

Dosage strength and duration of treatment will vary depending on the condition being treated, as well as patient age, health, and other personal variables. Generally:

• Adult doses range from 250 to 1000 mg daily, with 500 mg being most common for most infections.
• Pediatric doses are typically smaller and vary greatly depending on age and the infection.
• A dose is usually taken 2 to 3 times daily, spread evenly apart.
• For many conditions treatment lasts around 10 days; for some conditions treatment may span several months.

Treatment is most effective if each dose is taken equally spread apart and around the same time each day, to maximize the drug's presence in the body. Staying hydrated will also help the body fight off the infection.

Many patients notice improvements after the first dose or two, and the majority of patients experience nearly complete relief after 7 days of treatment. Again it is important that treatment continue until finished. A rough rule when treating infections is that antibiotic use should continue for 2 or 3 days after all symptoms of infection have been eliminated. A better method is to see a doctor, who can check for bacteria.

Side effects associated with Cipmox are similar to those associated with any other antibiotic; diarrhea, abdominal upset, mild fever, and so forth. If a side effect becomes severe enough to be disruptive it should be brought to the attention of a doctor.