Amoxicillin suspension: what it is and how to use it

Amoxicillin suspension is the liquid form of a common antibiotic used for ear infections, strep throat, sinusitis and some chest infections. Pharmacies give it as a powder you mix with water so kids and adults who can’t swallow pills can take the right dose. Knowing how to measure, store, and give it makes the medicine work better and lowers side effects.

How to give amoxicillin suspension safely

The pharmacy usually mixes the powder with water and prints the dose on the label. Use the oral syringe or measuring cup that comes with it—kitchen teaspoons are too inaccurate. Shake the bottle well each time before measuring. Give doses at evenly spaced times (for example every 12 hours for twice-daily dosing).

Pediatric doses are based on weight. A common approach for routine infections is 25–50 mg per kg per day split into two or three doses; for certain ear infections doctors often use a higher 80–90 mg/kg/day schedule. Don’t change doses without checking your prescriber. Always finish the full course even if symptoms improve, unless your provider tells you otherwise.

Storage, shelf life, and practical tips

After reconstitution most amoxicillin suspensions last 7–14 days in the fridge—check the label or ask your pharmacist. Throw away any leftovers after the date on the label. Keep the bottle tightly closed and put it in the fridge unless the label says room temperature. Avoid storing in direct sunlight or near heat (no bathroom counters by the stove).

Common side effects include mild diarrhea, nausea, or rash. If your child has hives, swelling, trouble breathing, or a very severe rash, stop the medicine and seek emergency care—those can be signs of an allergic reaction to penicillin. If diarrhea is watery or has blood, contact the doctor right away. To reduce mild diarrhea, a plain probiotic (like Lactobacillus) may help, but ask your provider first.

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Don’t double up to catch up. If vomiting happens soon after a dose, call your provider or pharmacist for next steps.

Other tips: store the dosing syringe with the bottle, keep the label for dosing instructions, and don’t mix the medicine into hot drinks (it can affect taste and stability). Tell any prescriber about penicillin allergies, and list other medicines your child is taking—some drugs can interact with antibiotics.

If you’re unsure about dosing, storage, or side effects, call your pharmacist or the prescriber. A quick question can prevent mistakes and keep your child safer while the antibiotic does its job.