Compare Augmentin vs. Bactrim
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) and Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, but they belong to different drug classes and work in different ways. Augmentin is a combination of a penicillin antibiotic and a beta-lactamase inhibitor, which helps prevent bacteria from breaking down the antibiotic. It is commonly used for respiratory tract infections, ear infections, sinus infections, and UTIs, and is available in tablet, chewable tablet, and liquid forms. Bactrim, on the other hand, combines a sulfonamide antibiotic with an antifolate, which stops bacteria from making folic acid. It treats UTIs, ear infections, and certain types of pneumonia, and comes in tablet, liquid, and injection forms. Augmentin is safe to use during pregnancy, while Bactrim is not recommended for pregnant individuals. Both medications can cause side effects like nausea and diarrhea, but Bactrim can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Additionally, Augmentin should be avoided if you have a penicillin allergy, whereas Bactrim should not be used if you have a sulfa allergy.
Summary of Augmentin vs. Bactrim
Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate) is an antibiotic medication. It contains a penicillin and a beta-lactamase inhibitor. This antibiotic treats many types of bacterial infections, like urinary tract infection (UTI), sinus infection, and ear infection, among others. It fights infections by preventing bacteria from protecting themselves from harm. This medication comes as tablets, chewable tablets, and a suspension that are taken by mouth typically two to three times daily. It's approved for use in adults and children. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and rash.
Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (sometimes known as SMZ/TMP) is a combination medication containing an antifolate and sulfa antibiotic. It's used to treat different types of infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), ear infections, and lung infections. This antibiotic has two different brand names, Bactrim and Septra, and it's also available as a lower-cost generic. It's a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically twice daily for most types of infections. This antibiotic also comes as a suspension under the brand name Sulfatrim for people who can't swallow tablets and as an injection for people in the hospital. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and rash.
Indications of Augmentin vs. Bactrim
Pros and Cons of Augmentin vs. Bactrim
Common Side Effects of Augmentin vs. Bactrim
Immediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, and suspension
Augmentin ES-600 (amoxicillin / clavulanate) suspension
Warnings of Augmentin vs. Bactrim
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