Amoxicillin in Spain (Amoxicilina): Uses and Prescription Rules

You have been told you may need an antibiotic and amoxicillin sounds familiar, but you are not sure which infections it actually treats, whether it is the same as Augmentine, or why you cannot buy it at the pharmacy without a prescription. That is normal: it is one of the most used antibiotics and also one of the most misunderstood.

Amoxicilina is amoxicillin, a penicillin antibiotic. It works only against bacteria, not viruses, which is why it does nothing for flu or most colds.

• What it is used for: bacterial infections such as strep throat, some ear and sinus infections, dental infections and pneumonia, when a doctor judges it is the right antibiotic.
• What it does not treat: flu, colds and most sore throats, which are viral. Taking it unnecessarily does not help and fuels bacterial resistance.
• Common side effects: diarrhoea, nausea and skin rash.
• Check first if: you are allergic to penicillin or have reacted to another antibiotic; also if you take methotrexate or allopurinol.
• Do you need a prescription? Yes: in Spain all antibiotics are dispensed only with a prescription. Finish the course prescribed, even if you feel better sooner.
• Go to an emergency department if: you get a rash with breathing difficulty or swollen lips, or severe or bloody diarrhoea during treatment.

If you have throat, ear or sinus pain and do not know whether you need an antibiotic, an online consultation can assess your symptoms and, where clinically appropriate and following a genuine evaluation, issue a private e-prescription valid in Spain. You can book a video consultation or read about sore throat. This is general information and does not replace the package leaflet or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. This service is for urgent, non-emergency care; in an emergency, call 112.