Tips for the Amoxicillin Shortage
Currently, there is a shortage of a commonly used antibiotic, Amoxicillin, in the United States and a number of other countries. Here are some tips if you’re going through it.
What To Know
Amoxicillin comes in different forms for kids - liquids (with a few different concentrations, 400mg/5ml is the most common one), chewable tablets, and capsules. Most of the shortage currently reported is for the most common concentrations of the liquid antibiotic. Here are 3 things you can talk with your care team about when they are prescribing it for you:
Can they try a different concentration that is available?
Could they try a chewable tablet (if old enough)?
Could you break open a capsule and sprinkle its contents into juice, milk, etc. (if the dose matched up)?
Alternate Antibiotics
Your care team may prescribe an alternate antibiotic - talk with them about any potential different side effects and what to expect. You could also ask about probiotics while on antibiotics.
Talking With Your Pharmacy
Make sure to try calling your pharmacy ahead of time to ensure that they have it in stock (many pharmacies are accepting electronic orders but might not have it in the store). You can also try compounding pharmacies, which are amazing and can be a great backup.
It sometimes feels like one thing after another, I know. But you’re doing great, and your little one will feel better soon.