Key takeaways
Azithromycin (Zithromax) and amoxicillin (Amoxil) are both antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections, such as respiratory and skin infections. However, they belong to different medication classes. Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic, while amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. Azithromycin is typically taken once daily for 3 to 5 days, whereas amoxicillin is usually taken two to three times a day, depending on the infection. Azithromycin is available as tablets and a liquid suspension, and amoxicillin comes in tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and liquid forms. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, but azithromycin may also lead to stomach pain and QT prolongation, a heart rhythm problem. Amoxicillin can cause vomiting and rash. Azithromycin interacts with medications like antiarrhythmics, statins and warfarin, while amoxicillin can interact with warfarin and allopurinol. Both medications are available as generics, making them more affordable options.
