What is the function of amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin, a commonly used semi-synthetic penicillin antibiotic, has several main functions including broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, treatment of respiratory tract infections, treatment of urinary and reproductive system infections, treatment of skin and soft tissue infections, and assisting in the eradication of *Helicobacter pylori*. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Broad-spectrum antibacterial: Amoxicillin inhibits a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial lysis and death. It is effective against infections caused by pathogens such as hemolytic streptococci, *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, *Escherichia coli*, and *Proteus mirabilis*, making it a commonly prescribed antimicrobial agent in clinical practice.

2. Treatment of respiratory tract infections: For infections caused by susceptible bacteria—including pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis media, bronchitis, and pneumonia—amoxicillin effectively kills pathogenic bacteria, alleviates symptoms such as sore throat, cough, sputum production, and fever, controls the spread of infection, and promotes recovery of respiratory function.

3. Treatment of urinary and reproductive system infections: It shows good efficacy against urinary and reproductive tract infections such as urethritis, cystitis, pyelonephritis, gonorrhea, and pelvic inflammatory disease. The drug reaches the site of infection directly, eliminating bacteria and improving symptoms like frequent urination, urgency, and dysuria, thereby helping restore urogenital health.

4. Treatment of skin and soft tissue infections: Indicated for folliculitis, furuncles, carbuncles, cellulitis, and wound infections, amoxicillin suppresses bacterial proliferation, reduces local symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, and pus formation, and creates favorable conditions for the healing of skin and soft tissues.

5. Assisting in eradication of *Helicobacter pylori*: In the treatment of *H. pylori* infection, amoxicillin is often used in combination with proton pump inhibitors and bismuth agents as part of a quadruple therapy regimen. This enhances antibacterial effects, improves the eradication rate of *H. pylori*, and reduces the risk of recurrence of diseases such as gastritis and gastric ulcers.

Prior to use, the type of bacterial infection should be clearly identified. To prevent the development of antibiotic resistance, amoxicillin should not be misused and must be taken strictly according to medical instructions.