Penicillins
Co-amoxiclav
Severe or resistant chest infectionsAnimal or human bitesComplicated sinus infections
This medicine is in the penicillin family. Side effects like sickness or diarrhoea are not an allergy — read what a penicillin allergy actually means.
Information follows NICE antimicrobial prescribing guidance and the BNF.
Common side effects
- Diarrhoea (more likely than with amoxicillin)
- Feeling sick
- Thrush
How often each one happens varies by medicine and product, so check your leaflet. Many are mild, but ask your pharmacist or doctor if they are troublesome or do not settle.
Less common side effects
- Being sick
- Indigestion
- Dizziness
- Headache
Get medical help straight away if you notice
- Liver problems: yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, itching
- Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea
- Severe allergic reaction
Taking it safely
- Take with the first mouthful of food to reduce stomach upset.
Report a side effect
You can report any suspected side effect to the UK Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.