Antibiotics
Amoxicillin vs Azithromycin
Compare Amoxicillin and Azithromycin (Z-Pack) for bacterial infections.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | Amoxicillin | Azithromycin |
|---|---|---|
Effectiveness | First-line for strep, ear infections, dental, pneumonia | Broader coverage including atypicals, single Z-pack course |
Cost | $5-15/course generic | $15-30/course generic |
| Side Effects | Diarrhea, rash in penicillin allergy patients | GI upset, cardiac arrhythmia risk (rare) |
Convenience | 3x daily for 7-10 days | Once daily for 5 days (Z-pack) |
| Insurance Coverage | Cheapest antibiotic, always covered | Covered generic |
Key Differences
- Amoxicillin targets gram-positive bacteria; Azithromycin has atypical coverage
- Z-pack (Azithromycin) convenience vs Amoxicillin efficacy for strep
- Amoxicillin first-line for strep throat (prevents rheumatic fever)
- Azithromycin for atypical pneumonia, chlamydia
Similarities
- Both treat bacterial infections
- Both generic and affordable
- Both require prescription
- Both common antibiotics
Which Is Best For You?
Amoxicillin is Best For:
- Strep throat
- Ear infections (otitis media)
- Dental procedures
- Pneumonia (community-acquired)
Azithromycin is Best For:
- Penicillin allergy
- Atypical pneumonia (walking pneumonia)
- STI treatment (chlamydia)
- Convenience priority
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for sinus infection, Amoxicillin or Azithromycin?
Amoxicillin (or Augmentin) is generally preferred as first-line for bacterial sinusitis per guidelines. Azithromycin is an alternative for penicillin-allergic patients, though resistance is increasing.
Is a Z-Pack (Azithromycin) better than Amoxicillin?
Not necessarily. Amoxicillin is more effective for strep throat and prevents complications like rheumatic fever. The Z-pack's convenience doesn't make it more effective for most common bacterial infections.
Compare Prices for Amoxicillin and Azithromycin
No matter which medication you choose, Script Unlock helps you find the best price from verified pharmacies. Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.
Get Your Price Quotes