Amoxil (Amoxicillin) 500 mg Capsules & 875 mg Tablets: Prescription Broad-Spectrum Penicillin Antibiotic for Ear Infections, Strep Throat & Chest Infections

Information last reviewed: May 2026 — for educational purposes only.

Amoxil is a brand name for amoxicillin trihydrate, a broad-spectrum aminopenicillin antibiotic and one of the most widely prescribed antibacterial drugs in the world. It is used to treat a broad range of bacterial infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Common indications include acute otitis media (ear infection), pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (strep throat), community-acquired pneumonia, acute sinusitis, dental abscesses, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Amoxicillin is always prescription-only and does not treat viral infections such as colds, flu, or COVID-19.

What Is Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is a semi-synthetic penicillin that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), blocking transpeptidation — the final cross-linking step needed for a structurally sound bacterial cell wall. Without this, the wall weakens, osmotic pressure ruptures the bacterium, and the organism dies. Amoxicillin is bactericidal (kills bacteria rather than merely inhibiting growth), which generally means faster resolution of acute infections compared with bacteriostatic antibiotics.

Its spectrum includes Streptococcus pneumoniae, S. pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, Escherichia coli, and Helicobacter pylori (in combination regimens). However, many strains now produce beta-lactamase enzymes that destroy penicillins; this resistance is addressed by combining amoxicillin with the beta-lactamase inhibitor clavulanate (co-amoxiclav / Augmentin).

Is Amoxicillin Available Over the Counter?

Amoxicillin is not available over the counter in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, European Union, or Australia. It requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider in all these markets. Antibiotic regulation exists to slow the emergence of antimicrobial resistance — a global public health priority — and to ensure the correct antibiotic is matched to the specific infection and causative organism wherever possible.

Some countries with less strict pharmaceutical regulation may sell amoxicillin without a prescription at certain pharmacies, but this practice is increasingly discouraged internationally. Patients seeking antibiotic treatment should consult a GP, urgent care clinic, or telehealth service. Completing the full prescribed course is critical, even after symptoms resolve, to prevent the development of resistant strains.

Tablet and Capsule Strengths

Amoxicillin is manufactured in a wide range of oral forms to suit different patient ages and infection severities:

• 250 mg capsules — lower dose, commonly used in children or as a starting dose in milder infections
• 500 mg capsules / tablets — the standard adult dose; typically prescribed three times daily (TDS) for 5–10 days depending on indication
• 875 mg tablets — higher dose for more serious infections or organisms requiring higher minimum inhibitory concentrations; usually prescribed twice daily (BID)
• 125 mg / 5 ml and 250 mg / 5 ml oral suspension — liquid formulations for children; banana or strawberry flavoured; must be kept refrigerated after reconstitution and used within 14 days
• Co-amoxiclav (Augmentin) — amoxicillin combined with clavulanate 125 mg; available as 250/125, 500/125, and 875/125 mg tablets, extending coverage to beta-lactamase-producing organisms

Standard adult amoxicillin dosing for most common infections is 500 mg three times daily or 875 mg twice daily for 5 to 10 days. Duration and dose are determined by infection type, site, and severity — the prescriber’s instructions should always be followed exactly.

Price of Generic Amoxicillin

Generic amoxicillin capsules and tablets are among the least expensive prescription antibiotics available. With pharmacy discount programmes such as GoodRx, a standard 10-day course of generic amoxicillin 500 mg can cost under $10 without insurance in the United States. In the UK, amoxicillin is dispensed at the standard NHS prescription charge regardless of quantity. Brand-name Amoxil is rarely dispensed now given the wide availability and low cost of generics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy amoxicillin without a prescription?

No, not legally in the US, UK, Canada, EU, or Australia. Amoxicillin requires a valid prescription. Telehealth platforms can facilitate fast prescriptions for straightforward infections (e.g., confirmed strep symptoms, uncomplicated UTI) without requiring an in-person visit.

What infections does amoxicillin treat?

Amoxicillin treats bacterial infections including: strep throat, tonsillitis, acute ear infections (otitis media), acute sinusitis, community-acquired pneumonia (mild to moderate), dental infections, skin and soft tissue infections caused by susceptible organisms, and uncomplicated UTIs. It does not treat viral sore throats, viral chest infections, COVID-19, or influenza.

Is amoxicillin safe in pregnancy?

Amoxicillin is generally considered one of the safest antibiotics during pregnancy and is widely used for infections occurring in pregnant patients. It is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B, meaning animal studies have not shown harm and it has a long history of use in pregnancy without documented fetal risk. However, any medication during pregnancy should be taken only under medical guidance.

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