Amoxicillin Dosage for Ear Infection?

Question

I have an unlimited prescription for the antibiotic amoxicillin because I have to take it every time I go to the dentist as a precaution for my heart murmer.

The capsules are 500 mg and when I go to the dentist, I usually take 4.

I have a history of ear infections. I had tubes put in my ears when I was kid and have been plagued by them my whole life. My doctor always prescribes amoxicillin to treat the infection. So since I have this unlimited prescription for amoxicillin why am I going to waste a visit to the dr to get an additional rx for amoxicillin? (I'm not). Unfortunately I do not remember the mg prescribed for the ear infections...so that's why I'm asking YOU:

In your opinion, how many mg's of amoxicillin should I take to clear up an ear infection? I'm thinking I should take one 500mg capsule every 12 hours.

It would be most appreciated if an actual doctor or pharmacist could give me insight.

Answer 1

You shouldn't even think about trying to treat your own ear infection.  If they're recurrent, a doctor may want to give you a different antibiotic.  If you take the amoxicillin and you don't take enough for long enough, the ear infection could become worse.  See a doctor, a nurse practitioner, etc., but don't even think about using your amoxicillin that's supposed to be for your dental treatment.  Good luck!

Answer 2

See if it's not a contradiction to take some Oil of Oregano for that ear infection.

Answer 3

You should never take antibiotics based on your own self diagnosis.  I think it is a terrible idea for a patient to have an "unlimited" prescription.  This is one of the things that leads to the emerging problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics.   The more times you take amoxil, the more likely you are creating resistant bacteria.  For those who really do get recurrent infections, it is recommended NOT to keep using the same antibiotic.

If you REALLY get recurrent middle ear infections (Otitis media) then you should be evaluated by an ENT doctor.

I suspect the "heart murmer" you have is mitral valve prolapse...this is a common and benign murmer.  It used to be thought that you needed antibiotics before dental work to prevent infections on the valvel leaflets, but that is no longer recommended.  Your doctor and dentist don't seem to be up on the current literature.

So while I know the proper adult dosage of Amoxicillin,  I'm not going to tell you as I think it would contribute to your mismanagement.

Get yourself a new GP, or tell yours he needs to keep up with the  latest evidence....