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Key takeaways
Azithromycin and amoxicillin are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. They differ by drug class, with azithromycin being a macrolide antibiotic and amoxicillin a penicillin antibiotic.
Azithromycin is commonly prescribed for sinus infections, pneumonia, and certain sexually transmitted diseases, while amoxicillin is used for ear infections, pneumonia, and throat infections.
Both azithromycin and amoxicillin are effective and generally well-tolerated, but their efficacy depends on the type of bacterial infection being treated.
Azithromycin and amoxicillin may cause common side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. It’s essential to consider each medication’s specific drug interactions and warnings.
If you come down with a sinus infection, ear infection, or skin infection, you may be prescribed an antibiotic like amoxicillin or Augmentin. These infections are often caused by different strains of bacteria that can cause complications if not treated properly. It’s important that these infections be treated with the right antibiotic to get rid of the infection and prevent antibiotic resistance. But what’s the difference between amoxicillin and Augmentin?
Amoxicillin and Augmentin are similar prescription antibiotics used to treat a variety of infections. Augmentin contains amoxicillin and clavulanate, which may make Augmentin more effective than amoxicillin alone for certain infections. Both amoxicillin and Augmentin are part of a group of antibiotics called penicillins.
Continue reading to learn more about the difference between amoxicillin and Augmentin, their side effects, and other important information.
What are the main differences between amoxicillin vs. Augmentin
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a generic antibiotic; brand names of amoxicillin include Amoxil and Moxatag. It is commonly used to treat bacterial infections in children and adults, and it is usually tolerated with mild side effects. Amoxicillin can treat infections caused by a broad range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is often used to treat respiratory tract infections (such as sinusitis and strep throat), ear infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and H. pylori infections.
Amoxicillin is available as a 250 mg or 500 mg capsule and a 500 mg or 875 mg tablet. Other formulations are available, such as oral suspensions and chewable tablets.
Augmentin
Augmentin is a brand-name antibiotic; the generic version of Augmentin is amoxicillin combined with clavulanate, or clavulanic acid. Clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that blocks bacterial enzymes from inactivating amoxicillin. Augmentin can treat similar infections to amoxicillin plus certain infections that may have developed antibiotic resistance against amoxicillin, such as persistent ear infections.
Augmentin is available as an oral tablet that contains 125 mg of clavulanate and 250 mg, 500 mg, or 875 mg of amoxicillin. Like amoxicillin, Augmentin is also available as an oral suspension and chewable tablet. However, Augmentin also comes as an extended-release tablet called Augmentin XR.
| Main differences between amoxicillin and Augmentin | ||
|---|---|---|
| Amoxicillin | Augmentin | |
| Drug class | Penicillin antibiotics | Penicillin antibiotics |
| Brand/generic status | Brand and generic versions available | Brand and generic versions available |
| What is the generic and brand name? | Generic name: amoxicillin
Brand name: Amoxil, Moxatag |
Generic name: amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium
Brand name: Augmentin, Augmentin XR, Augmentin ES-600 |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Oral tablet Oral tablet, chewable Oral capsule Powder for oral suspension |
Oral tablet Oral tablet, chewable Oral tablet, extended-release Powder for oral suspension |
| What is the standard dosage? | Example dosage: 500 mg every 12 hours or 250 mg every 8 hours Actual dosage depends on the infection being treated |
Example dosage: 875 mg every 12 hours or 500 mg every 8 hours Actual dosage depends on the infection being treated |
| How long is the typical treatment? | 7–10 days Duration depends on the infection being treated |
10 days Duration depends on the infection being treated |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adults, children, and infants | Adults, children, and infants |
Conditions treated by amoxicillin and Augmentin
Amoxicillin is used to treat bacterial infections including:
- Upper respiratory tract infections, such as sinusitis, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis, caused by susceptible types of Streptococcus species, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus species, or Haemophilus influenzae
- Ear infections, or acute otitis media, caused by susceptible types of Streptococcus species, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus species, or Haemophilus influenzae
- Lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, caused by susceptible types of Streptococcus species, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus species, or Haemophilus influenzae
- Skin infections, such as cellulitis, caused by susceptible types of Streptococcus species, Staphylococcus species, or Escherichia coli
- Urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, caused by susceptible types of Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, or Enterococcus faecalis
- Infections caused by Helicobacter pylori (when combined with other medications)
Off-label uses of amoxicillin include the treatment of:
- Lyme disease
- Dental infections, such as periodontitis
- Infections caused by Bacillus anthracis
Amoxicillin should only be used for infections caused by susceptible, beta-lactamase negative strains of bacteria.
Augmentin is used to treat bacterial infections including:
- Ear infections, or acute otitis media, caused by beta-lactamase–producing types of Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis
- Sinusitis caused by beta-lactamase–producing types of Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis
- Lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, caused by beta-lactamase–producing types of Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis
- Skin infections, such as impetigo, caused by beta-lactamase–producing types of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella species
- Urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, caused by beta-lactamase–producing types of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Enterobacter species
Off-label uses of amoxicillin include the treatment of:
- Dental infections, such as periodontitis
- Melioidosis
- Febrile neutropenia
Is amoxicillin or Augmentin more effective?
The most effective antibiotic is the one that targets the specific bacteria causing the infection. Using the wrong antibiotic may contribute to antibiotic resistance and worsening disease. Augmentin is preferred over amoxicillin for certain infections caused by bacteria that produce beta-lactamase.
Some clinical trials have shown that Augmentin is more effective for certain skin infections like nonbullous impetigo while other clinical trials have shown that amoxicillin and Augmentin are similarly effective for treating sinus infections. In many cases, Augmentin is prescribed more often than amoxicillin even if amoxicillin may be just as effective as Augmentin. Amoxicillin has fewer side effects than Augmentin, and it can be taken in higher doses than Augmentin.
Consult a healthcare provider for medical advice on the best antibiotic treatment for you. You should only take antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor.
Coverage and cost comparison of amoxicillin vs. Augmentin
Amoxicillin is a generic antibiotic that is covered by Medicare and insurance plans. As a generic drug, it can often be purchased at low costs depending on the prescription. The average retail cost is around $24. A SingleCare amoxicillin coupon may help lower the cost of an amoxicillin prescription.
Augmentin is a brand-name antibiotic that is also available as a generic version. The generic version is usually covered by Medicare and insurance plans. The average retail cost of Augmentin is around $167 depending on the prescription. An Augmentin coupon may help lower the cash price of generic Augmentin.
| Amoxicillin | Augmentin | |
| Typically covered by insurance? | Yes | Yes |
| Typically covered by Medicare Part D? | Yes | Yes |
| Quantity | 21, 500 mg capsules | 20, 500-125 mg tablets |
| Typical Medicare copay | $0-$10 | $0-$20 |
| SingleCare cost | $1+ | $8+ |
Common side effects of amoxicillin vs. Augmentin
The most common side effects of amoxicillin and Augmentin are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and rash. Other possible side effects of amoxicillin include headache and changes in taste perception. Other possible side effects of Augmentin include abdominal pain or discomfort, gas, and headache. Augmentin has also been reported to cause inflammation of the vagina, or vaginitis.
| Amoxicillin | Augmentin | |||
| Side Effect | Applicable? | Frequency | Applicable? | Frequency |
| Diarrhea | Yes | >1% | Yes | 9% |
| Nausea | Yes | >1% | Yes | 3% |
| Rash | Yes | >1% | Yes | 3% |
| Vomiting | Yes | >1% | Yes | 1% |
Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your doctor or healthcare provider to learn more.
Source: DailyMed (Amoxicillin), DailyMed (Augmentin)
Drug interactions of amoxicillin vs. Augmentin
Amoxicillin and Augmentin can interact with other medications, including probenecid and allopurinol. Probenecid can decrease the clearance of amoxicillin and cause increased blood concentrations of amoxicillin, which may lead to increased side effects of amoxicillin. Combining allopurinol with amoxicillin or Augmentin can increase the risk of a skin rash.
Taking amoxicillin or Augmentin with anticoagulants like warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding. The dosage of anticoagulants may need to be adjusted during treatment with amoxicillin or Augmentin.
Amoxicillin and Augmentin can affect the gut flora and reduce the reabsorption of estrogen. The use of these antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of oral birth control pills that contain estrogen or progesterone.
| Drug | Drug Class | Amoxicillin | Augmentin |
| Probenecid | Uricosurics | Yes | Yes |
| Allopurinol | Xanthine oxidase inhibitors | Yes | Yes |
| Warfarin | Anticoagulants | Yes | Yes |
| Ethinyl estradiol Levonorgestrel Norethindrone | Oral contraceptives | Yes | Yes |
This may not be a complete list of all possible drug interactions. Consult a doctor with all medications you may be taking.
Warnings of amoxicillin and Augmentin
Amoxicillin and Augmentin may cause allergic reactions in certain people. You should avoid taking amoxicillin or Augmentin if you’ve experienced an allergic reaction to other antibiotics, such as penicillins or cephalosporins, in the past. People with a history of conditions like asthma or eczema may be at an increased risk of experiencing an allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe rash, hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face or throat while taking an antibiotic.
The use of amoxicillin or Augmentin may increase the risk of severe diarrhea. Antibiotics can disrupt the intestinal flora and lead to the overgrowth of a bacterium called Clostridium difficile. Seek medical attention if you experience severe or bloody diarrhea.
Amoxicillin and Augmentin both carry a risk of liver disease, or hepatitis. However, the risk of hepatitis is higher with Augmentin than with amoxicillin alone. People with a history of liver disease should not take Augmentin.
People with mononucleosis may develop a skin rash during treatment with amoxicillin or Augmentin. These antibiotics should not be given to someone with mononucleosis.
There is a risk of antibiotic resistance if amoxicillin or Augmentin is not taken properly. You should complete the full course of antibiotics even if you start to feel better. Stopping antibiotics early or taking them without guidance from a healthcare provider may lead to antibiotic resistance.
Amoxicillin and Augmentin are in Pregnancy Category B. These antibiotics are generally safe to take while pregnant. Consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking an antibiotic.
Frequently asked questions about amoxicillin vs. Augmentin
What is amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin is a generic antibiotic known by brand names like Amoxil and Moxatag. It is prescribed to treat respiratory tract and skin infections, as well as urinary tract infections. Amoxicillin can also be combined with other medications to treat H. pylori infections. It is available as a capsule, tablet, chewable tablet, and oral suspension.
What is Augmentin?
Augmentin is a brand-name antibiotic that contains amoxicillin and clavulanate (also known as clavulanic acid). It is used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin. It is also often prescribed to treat persistent ear infections in children. Augmentin is available as a tablet, extended-release tablet, chewable tablet, and oral suspension. Other brand names of Augment include Augmentin XR and Augmentin ES-600.
Are amoxicillin and Augmentin the same?
Amoxicillin and Augmentin contain amoxicillin as an active ingredient, but Augmentin contains amoxicillin and a beta-lactamase inhibitor called clavulanate. Amoxicillin and Augmentin may be used to treat different types of infections.
Amoxicillin and Augmentin are available in similar formulations like oral suspensions and chewable tablets. These formulations may be particularly useful for children and people who have trouble swallowing. Amoxicillin and Augmentin oral suspensions can be flavored for easy administration in children.
Is amoxicillin or Augmentin better?
Amoxicillin and Augmentin may be similarly effective for treating certain bacterial infections. However, Augmentin is more effective for treating antibiotic-resistant infections that may not respond to amoxicillin alone. Augmentin targets bacteria that produce beta-lactamase.
Is Augmentin a very strong antibiotic?
Augmentin can fight against a broader range of bacteria than amoxicillin alone. Therefore, Augmentin may be considered a stronger antibiotic than amoxicillin. The potency of the antibiotic depends on the infection and the type of bacteria causing the infection.
What antibiotic is stronger than amoxicillin?
Certain antibiotics may be preferred over amoxicillin depending on the infection being treated and the type of bacteria causing the infection. Amoxicillin is effective for ear infections caused by Streptococcus pneumonia, but oral cephalosporins may be preferred for ear infections caused by Moraxella catarrhalis and Haemophilus influenzae. Augmentin would be considered stronger than amoxicillin for treating infections caused by strains of bacteria that produce beta-lactamase.
Can I use amoxicillin or Augmentin while pregnant?
Amoxicillin and Augmentin are both in Pregnancy Category B. These antibiotics are considered safe to take while pregnant.
Can I use amoxicillin or Augmentin with alcohol?
There are no known interactions between alcohol and amoxicillin or Augmentin. Drinking alcohol will not make the antibiotic less effective. However, it’s not generally recommended to drink alcohol while taking antibiotics. Alcohol may worsen antibiotic side effects, including nausea.
What is the strongest antibiotic for bacterial infection?
The strongest antibiotic for a bacterial infection depends on the infection being treated. Antibiotics should only be used for infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Using an antibiotic that doesn’t target the bacteria causing the infection can lead to antibiotic resistance. Penicillins, cephalosporins, and fluoroquinolones are examples of effective antibiotics when used properly.