Claim: Amoxicillin is taken by mouth.

Amoxicillin also spelled amoxycillin , is an antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections . It is the first line treatment for middle ear infections . It may also be used for strep throat , pneumonia , skin infections , and urinary tract infections among others . It is taken by mouth , or less commonly by injection .   Common side effects include nausea and rash . It may also increase the risk of yeast infections and , when used in combination with clavulanic acid , diarrhea . It should not be used in those who are allergic to penicillin . While usable in those with kidney problems , the dose may need to be decreased . Its use in pregnancy and breastfeeding does not appear to be harmful .   Amoxicillin was discovered in 1958 and came into medical use in 1972 . It is on the World Health Organization 's List of Essential Medicines , the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system . It is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in children . Amoxicillin is available as a generic medication . It has a wholesale cost in the developing world of between 0.02 and 0.05 USD per pill . In the United States ten days of treatment costs about 16 USD .