Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as chest infections and dental abscesses. Amoxil contains amoxicillin alone, while Augmentin pairs it with clavulanic acid.
Key points
- Amoxicillin is not suitable if you have had a serious allergic reaction to it or to another penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotic.
- It kills bacteria by blocking the construction of their cell wall, so it works only against infections caused by susceptible organisms.
- Augmentin adds clavulanic acid to protect amoxicillin from beta-lactamase enzymes, extending its reach to bacteria that would otherwise break it down.
Common questions about Amoxicillin
Why does Augmentin list three strengths while Amoxil has two?
Amoxil is listed at 250 mg and 500 mg. Augmentin runs from 250 mg + 125 mg up to 875 mg + 125 mg, adding a higher amoxicillin dose that the single-ingredient product does not carry.
What infections does each product cover?
Amoxil is listed for Bacterial Infections and Helicobacter Pylori Infection, the stomach bacterium linked to ulcers. Augmentin is listed for bacterial infections, sinusitis and otitis media. Both fall under Antibiotics.
Further reading
What is amoxicillin clavulanate?
Amoxicillin clavulanate is amoxicillin combined with clavulanic acid. The clavulanic acid protects amoxicillin from beta-lactamase enzymes, extending its reach to bacteria that would otherwise break it down.
What is amoxicillin used for?
Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as chest infections and dental abscesses. It is also used for Helicobacter pylori infection, otitis media and sinusitis.
How does amoxicillin work?
Amoxicillin kills bacteria by blocking the construction of their cell wall. This means it works only against infections caused by susceptible organisms.
How long does amoxicillin take to work?
Amoxicillin starts to act within 1 to 2 hours. Its effects last for 8 to 12 hours.
What are the side effects of amoxicillin?
Common side effects include diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting. Some people may also get a rash, vaginal candidiasis or a headache. Serious side effects include anaphylaxis and Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhoea, which need immediate medical attention.
Which amoxicillin products does Direct Meds sell?
On Direct Meds, amoxicillin comes as Amoxil and Augmentin. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does amoxicillin cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is amoxicillin available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order amoxicillin. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy amoxicillin online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →