Difference Between Amoxicillin and Augmentin

Amoxicillin and Augmentin are two of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for treating various bacterial infections. They have similar indications, as well as similar side effects. However, there are some key differences between the two, and it is important to understand these differences when making decisions about which medication is best for a particular infection.

What is Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic in the class of drugs known as penicillin. It is used to treat many different bacterial infections, including ear infections, strep throat, sinus infections, and pneumonia. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

What is Augmentin?

Augmentin is a combination of two antibiotics: amoxicillin and clavulanate. The clavulanate is an inhibitor of certain enzymes that bacteria use to make their cell walls, which prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying. This makes Augmentin effective against a wider range of bacteria than amoxicillin alone.