Surreal illustration of a child experiencing hallucinations, representing a rare side effect of amoxicillin.

Amoxicillin Side Effects: When Antibiotics Cause More Harm Than Good

Lena Kashyap in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 3 min read.

"A rare case highlights the potential for auditory and visual hallucinations as a side effect of amoxicillin, especially in children."

Amoxicillin is a widely prescribed antibiotic, especially for children. Its effectiveness against bacterial infections has made it a staple in pediatric medicine. However, like all medications, amoxicillin carries potential side effects. While most are mild, such as gastrointestinal upset, some rare but serious reactions can occur.

One such reaction is the onset of auditory and visual hallucinations. Although uncommon, these psychotic events can be distressing for both the child and their parents. A recent case report highlighted the occurrence of these hallucinations in a young boy undergoing amoxicillin treatment for a febrile episode.

This article will delve into the specifics of this case, discuss the potential link between amoxicillin and hallucinations, and emphasize the importance of awareness and vigilance when administering this common antibiotic.

The Case of the Hallucinating Boy: A Detailed Look

Surreal illustration of a child experiencing hallucinations, representing a rare side effect of amoxicillin.

According to a report in Clinical Toxicology, a previously healthy 7-year-old boy was admitted to the emergency department after experiencing auditory and visual hallucinations shortly after starting amoxicillin treatment for a fever. He was prescribed amoxicillin oral suspension (1 g/day).

Just two hours after his initial dose, the boy began hearing voices scolding him. Over the next 24 hours, he experienced at least three such episodes. He also had a disturbing visual hallucination of a person far away from him.

Auditory Hallucinations: Hearing voices, often scolding or accusatory.
Visual Hallucinations: Seeing people or objects that are not there.
Rapid Onset: Symptoms appearing within hours of the first dose.

Following the onset of these symptoms, the boy was admitted to the hospital. Fortunately, after discontinuing amoxicillin, his symptoms resolved completely within 18 hours. He was discharged with no further hallucinatory episodes and no additional treatment was required. Neurological assessment revealed no underlying disorders.

Staying Informed and Vigilant

The case of the 7-year-old boy serves as a reminder that even common medications can have rare but serious side effects. While amoxicillin is generally safe and effective, it’s crucial for parents and healthcare providers to be aware of the potential for psychotic reactions. Open communication and prompt action are essential to ensure the well-being of children undergoing antibiotic treatment.

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Everything You Need To Know

What is amoxicillin and what are its potential side effects?

Amoxicillin is a widely used antibiotic, especially in children, and it's effective against bacterial infections. However, like all medications, amoxicillin can cause side effects. While most are mild, such as gastrointestinal issues, rare but serious reactions like auditory and visual hallucinations can occur. These psychotic events, while uncommon, can be distressing.

What are auditory and visual hallucinations, and how are they related to amoxicillin?

Auditory hallucinations involve hearing voices, which can sometimes be scolding or accusatory. Visual hallucinations involve seeing people or objects that aren't actually there. In the case of the 7-year-old boy, he experienced both types of hallucinations shortly after starting amoxicillin, highlighting the potential for rapid onset of these symptoms.

What should I do if I or my child experiences hallucinations while taking amoxicillin?

If someone experiences auditory or visual hallucinations while taking amoxicillin, it is crucial to discontinue the medication immediately and seek medical attention. In the case described, the symptoms resolved completely within 18 hours after stopping amoxicillin. Prompt action is essential to ensure the well-being of the individual.

Why is it important to be aware of the potential for hallucinations as a side effect of amoxicillin?

While amoxicillin is generally considered safe and effective, the case of the 7-year-old boy underscores the importance of awareness and vigilance. Parents and healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for psychotic reactions, even though they are rare. Open communication and careful monitoring are essential during antibiotic treatment.

Where was the case of the boy who experienced hallucinations after taking amoxicillin reported?

The case report was published in Clinical Toxicology. This highlights the importance of sharing such cases within the medical community to raise awareness and improve patient care. By reporting these rare side effects, healthcare professionals can better understand the potential risks associated with commonly used medications like amoxicillin.