Clindamycin vs. Augmentin for Skin Infection and Bacterial Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Clindamycin (Cleocin) and Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, including skin and lower respiratory tract infections. However, they belong to different medication classes. Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic, while Augmentin combines a penicillin antibiotic with a beta-lactamase inhibitor. Clindamycin is available in oral capsules, liquid, and injection forms, and is typically taken three to four times a day. Augmentin comes in tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid suspension, usually taken two to three times daily. Both medications have generic versions available, making them more affordable. Common side effects of clindamycin include stomach upset, itching, and rash, while Augmentin may cause diarrhea, nausea, and rash. Both medications can cause serious allergic reactions and *Clostridioides difficile* (C. diff) infections, but Augmentin also carries a risk of liver damage. Clindamycin can be used if you have a penicillin allergy, whereas Augmentin should be avoided if you have a severe penicillin allergy.

Clindamycin

(Cleocin)

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Augmentin

(amoxicillin / clavulanate)

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Summary for Clindamycin

Prescription only

Clindamycin (Cleocin) is a lincosamide antibiotic that's used to treat many different serious bacterial infections, such as strep throat and skin infections. This antibiotic is approved for use in both adults and children. Clindamycin (Cleocin) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken 3 or 4 times per day, depending on your age and your infection. It's also available as an injection that's given by a healthcare professional. Side effects include stomach upset, itching, and rash.

Indications for Clindamycin

Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
Lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
Stomach infections
Pelvic and genital tract infections
Bloodstream infections
Bone and joint infections - injection form only

Pros and Cons for Clindamycin

Pros

Can treat many different infections throughout the body
Available as lower-cost generic capsule, liquid, and injection
Can take if you have a penicillin allergy

Cons

Might need to take three or four times per day
Must take capsules with a full glass of water to prevent irritation to your esophagus (the tube that connects your throat to your stomach)
Risk of causing a type of infectious diarrhea

Common Side Effects for Clindamycin

Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach pain
Skin rash
Itching

Warnings for Clindamycin

Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
Development of drug-resistant bacteria

Summary for Augmentin

Prescription only

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.

Indications for Augmentin

Pros and Cons for Augmentin

Pros

Treats many types of bacterial infections in children and adults
Available as a tablet, chewable tablet, and oral suspension
Available as a lower-cost generic
Safe to use while pregnant and while breastfeeding

Cons

Typically need to take 2 or 3 times daily
Might not be able to take this antibiotic if you've had a severe penicillin allergy
Can cause stomach side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Common Side Effects for Augmentin

Immediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, and suspension

Diarrhea or loose stools (9%)
Nausea (3%)
Skin rash (3%)

Extended-release tablets

Diarrhea (15%)
Vaginal yeast infection (3%)

Augmentin ES-600 (amoxicillin / clavulanate) suspension

Vomiting (7%)
Fever (6%)
Rash (6%)
Upper respiratory tract infection (e.g., common cold; 4%)
Diarrhea (4%)

Warnings for Augmentin

Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
Liver problems
Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - for chewable tablets and suspension