Augmentin vs Amoxil: side-by-side comparison
Augmentin and Amoxil share the same active ingredient — Amoxicillin, Clavulanate — which makes them direct alternatives. The practical differences are brand, manufacturer (GlaxoSmithKline vs GlaxoSmithKline), available strengths and price. This comparison summarises what is the same, what differs, and when each is typically preferred.
| Property | Augmentin | Amoxil |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Amoxicillin, Clavulanate | Amoxicillin |
| Manufacturer | GlaxoSmithKline | GlaxoSmithKline |
| Class | Antibiotics | Antibiotics |
| Strengths | 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg | 250mg, 500mg, 875mg |
| Forms | tablet, extended-release tablet, oral suspension, chewable tablet | capsule, oral suspension, chewable tablet |
What's the same
Both medications contain Amoxicillin, Clavulanate. Clinical efficacy is comparable at equivalent doses, and the choice usually comes down to brand, price and availability.
Key differences
Although both contain Amoxicillin, Clavulanate, they differ in brand (Augmentin vs Amoxil), manufacturer (GlaxoSmithKline vs GlaxoSmithKline), excipients, tablet appearance, available strengths (500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg vs 250mg, 500mg, 875mg) and price.
Mechanism and action
Augmentin: Amoxicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), but is hydrolysed by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by some resistant bacteria. Amoxil: Amoxicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) and blocking the cross-linking of peptidoglycan strands.
When Augmentin is preferred
Augmentin is approved in adults and children for the treatment of respiratory tract infections including acute otitis media, sinusitis, community-acquired pneumonia and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, urinary tract infections, dental infections, skin and soft tissue in…
When Amoxil is preferred
Amoxil is approved in adults and children for the treatment of respiratory tract infections including community-acquired pneumonia, acute otitis media, sinusitis, pharyngitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, urinary tract infections, dental infections, skin and soft tissue infec…
Frequently asked questions
Is Augmentin or Amoxil better? ▾
Neither is universally better — they share the same active ingredient Amoxicillin, Clavulanate and are clinically equivalent at comparable doses. The choice usually comes down to brand, available strength, supply and cost.
Can I switch from Augmentin to Amoxil? ▾
Switching between Augmentin and Amoxil is usually straightforward as both share Amoxicillin, Clavulanate. Equivalent dose and schedule are confirmed by the prescriber or pharmacist.
Do Augmentin and Amoxil have the same side effects? ▾
Generally yes. Sharing Amoxicillin, Clavulanate, the side-effect profile is comparable. Minor differences can come from excipients and formulation.
More Augmentin comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.