What is the difference between Amoxiclav and Amoxicillin?
Often, when prescribing a drug, doctors do not explain to patients the specific pharmacological effects of the drug, so patients tend to decide for themselves whether Amoxiclav or Amoxicillin is better.
Table of contents:
- What is the difference between Amoxiclav and Amoxicillin?
- Amoxicillin and Amoxiclav
- Difference in composition
- The role of Amoxiclav in the treatment of respiratory diseases in children
- Indications and contraindications
- Comments on the article
- We recommend reading
- Amoxicillin and Amoxiclav. Is there a difference?
- Amoxiclav, augmentin, amoxicillin or summed - which is better?
- Briefly about the correct choice of antibiotics
- Amoxicillin (Russia, Serbia, Vietnam)
- Amoxiclav (Slovenia)
- Amoxicillin or Amoxiclav – which is better to choose?
- Augmentin or Amoxiclav?
- Sumamed (Croatia)
- Sumamed or Amoxiclav - which works better?
- Antibiotics for sore throat
- What is better to take - Amoxiclav or Amoxicillin?
- Types of antibiotics
- Amoxiclav or amoxicillin
- The difference between amoxiclav and amoxicillin
- Choice of antibiotic
- Contraindications
- Amoxiclav or amoxicillin - which is better?
- Review of amoxicillin and amoxiclav
- How are the two drugs different?
- Indications and contraindications for both drugs
- Side effects
- Choose the best: Amoxiclav or Amoxicillin
- Pharmacology of amoxicillin drug
- Composition and pharmacological action of Amoxiclav
- What is the difference
- Amoxiclav Quiktab: how is it different from Amoxiclav and how to take it?
- Amoxiclav
- Amoxiclav Quiktab
- Side effects
Both antibiotics contain Amoxicillin as the main active ingredient and are highly effective against many types of pathogenic microorganisms.
The difference between Amoxicillin and Amoxiclav is that one of them is a single drug, and the second contains an additional component - potassium clavulanate, due to which it has a wider radius of action on pathogens.
Amoxicillin and Amoxiclav
Amoxicillin is an effective and safe penicillin antibiotic that can be used in pediatric practice. But its action is limited mainly to gram-positive microorganisms. The medicine is well absorbed and penetrates into tissues even when administered orally. The maximum concentration of Amoxicillin is observed 2 hours after use, after which it quickly drops.
Amoxiclav is an antibiotic that was invented in 1978 by British scientists and, after receiving a patent, has been actively used for more than thirty years. Amoxiclav contains Amoxicillin and clavulanic acid is added to increase efficiency. This, in addition to the antibacterial effect, increases the activity of human leukocytes. Immunity is enhanced both against bacteria that secrete an enzyme that breaks down beta-lactam antibiotics, and those that do not have this ability.
Amoxicillin has a pronounced bactericidal effect, and potassium clavulanate prevents its enzymatic destruction and provides an additional antibacterial effect. Amoxiclav is active against many pathogenic bacteria, both gram-positive and gram-negative. There are several forms of the antibiotic, including suspension, solution for injection, regular and dispersible Quiktab tablets.
Difference in composition
Both drugs belong to semisynthetic antibiotics of the penicillin group and have the same main active ingredient. Amoxiclav differs from Amoxicillin in that the former also contains potassium clavulanate, which increases the radius of the antibacterial effect of the drug.
What is the difference between Amoxiclav and Amoxicillin in terms of effects on bacteria:
- Amoxicillin acts mainly against gram-positive bacteria, but does not affect many gram-negative ones. Due to the ability to produce penicillinase, microorganisms exhibit resistance to monocomponent antibiotics of the penicillin group. This type of bacteria provokes the appearance of sore throat in almost every fourth case of the disease. In such situations, Amoxicillin will not have an adequate therapeutic effect;
- Amoxilav has a bactericidal and bacteriostatic effect on most types of gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms, allowing its use in the treatment of diseases of unspecified etiology. The drug is used in the treatment of children; it has a short half-life; the content of Amoxicillin in the blood decreases after 2 hours.
Sodium clavulanate in Amoxiclav also has an effect on microorganisms, so it is logical to assume that the antibacterial activity of the drug increases. This statement is true for penicillinase-producing bacteria. If we study the effect of drugs on a pathogen that does not produce the enzyme, then the effectiveness of the drugs will be almost the same, and if you replace Amoxiclav with Amoxicillin, this will not affect the speed of recovery.
The role of Amoxiclav in the treatment of respiratory diseases in children
Treatment of respiratory diseases in pediatrics remains a problem that scientists have been trying to solve for many years. During this time, a large number of antibacterial agents were created, no less effective than Amoxiclav, which are used in pediatrics. The prevalence of pathology among children is growing, while common respiratory diseases are often very severe and sometimes lead to disability of the patient.
In addition, a rational treatment regimen for bronchopulmonary diseases in children avoids excessive therapy, which is found everywhere. In this case, timely administration of Amoxiclav, which is active against almost all pathogenic bacteria, prevents complications and leads to a rapid recovery of the patient.
A study of sensitivity to antibiotics during complications of acute respiratory infections showed that the bacterial flora of sick children is represented mainly by three types of pathogens (Haemophilus influenzae, pneumococcus and moraxella):
These types of bacteria are highly sensitive to Amoxicillin. This explains the good therapeutic effect of the drug. But some strains of B. Catarrhalis, found much less frequently, secrete the enzyme beta-lactamase and react only to the combination drug Amoxiclav.
Effective antibiotic therapy lies not so much in the novelty of the drug, but in the rationality of its choice. It is important to take into account indicators of antibiotic resistance and sensitivity of pathogenic flora. In some cases, the problem can be solved by prescribing a higher dose of Amoxicillin, but in pediatrics this is not always possible without harm to the patient. Therefore, sometimes doctors use the drug Amoxiclav, which has a wider spectrum of action.
Indications and contraindications
According to the instructions, Amoxicillin is indicated for tonsillitis, otitis media, tracheitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, and laryngitis. The drug is contraindicated in case of an allergic reaction to penicillins and cephalosporins, viral respiratory infections, severe dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract, asthma, kidney and liver dysfunction.
Amoxiclav (aka Augmentin) is usually used for diseases of the throat, maxillary sinuses, ears, as well as severe bronchopulmonary diseases. Contraindications to taking the drug include suspicion of mononucleosis, lymphocytic leukemia, allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics, intolerance to components, severe dysfunction of the liver and kidneys. Amoxiclav is usually not prescribed after Amoxicillin; if the drug is insufficiently effective, the doctor prescribes an antibiotic from a different group to the patient, for example, a macrolide.
To determine the infectious nature of the disease, a specialist performs a sputum test or bacterial culture from the throat/nose, the results of which can be obtained only after 4 days. Sore throat often has a fungal origin (tonsillomycosis), in which case the patient needs treatment with fungicidal agents. If it is necessary to prescribe urgent antibiotic therapy, for example, for bacterial sore throat, the doctor may prescribe Amoxiclav, which will give a better therapeutic effect than Amoxicillin.
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IMPORTANT. The information on the site is provided for informational purposes only. Do not self-medicate. At the first sign of disease, consult a doctor.
Source: http://pillsman.org/24088-amoksiklav-i-amoksicillin.html
Amoxicillin and Amoxiclav. Is there a difference?
Amoxicillin, price 40 rub. Amoxiclav - 385. The difference is 10 times. Despite the fact that Amoxiclav contains amoxicillin as the main active ingredient. What is it about this miracle drug that makes the price so much higher? Or is this another scam?
Both drugs belong to semi-synthetic drugs of the penicillin group and the main active ingredient in them is Amoxicillin. But the combination drug Amoxilava also contains clavulanic acid, which forms a stable complex with the main substance, slowing down enzymatic hydration and providing a wider range of antibacterial effects.
If amoxicillin acts on gram-positive bacteria (streptococci), then amoxilav inhibits both gram-positive and gram-negative (staphylococci), which guarantees better results in treatment for unknown etiology of the causative agent. The concentration of amoxicillin in the blood begins to decrease rapidly after two hours.
This is the reason for the difference in the cost of drugs.
The question is very interesting, because such a drug, where the active ingredient seems to be the same, but the price is many times higher, is not only Amoxiclav. Despite the common active principle - amoxicillin - there is a fundamental difference in these drugs. The drug "Amoxiclav" is enhanced by the action of clavulanic acid included in it. It is this that protects amoxicillin from the effects of beta-lactamase enzymes, that is, it creates a favorable environment in the body for the drug to act.
In our time, many pathogens of various infectious diseases have appeared that are resistant to the effects of antibiotics. Such diseases are very difficult to treat. So, there are such microorganisms that are resistant to amoxicillin. However, due to the presence of clavulanic acid in the complex, the drug "Amoxiclav" can be prescribed against such pathogens, and a significant effect in the treatment of such infections is observed. Imagine how many more opportunities doctors have—and more chances for patients!
Most likely, this is why the price of this drug is so high - it is effective for those diseases where amoxicillin does not work. That is, its range of applications is much wider and there are more indications.
Difference between amoxiclav and amoxicillin:
Amoxicillin is an antimicrobial drug from the group of semisynthetic penicillins; it has a bactericidal effect against gram-positive microorganisms.
Amoxiclav is an antibiotic, belongs to the category of semi-synthetic penicillins. It contains amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. The latter component forms a stable complex together with Amoxicillin, thereby preventing a decrease in its enzymatic hydration. The action of Amoxiclav covers both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, which means the drug is more effective.
I have learned from my own experience that it is better to overpay for a medicine that is sure to have an effect than to buy generics. My granddaughter got sick, she was treated with amoxicillin, everything went well. But when my grandson got sick, amoxicillin did not help, apparently the causative agent of the disease was different, I started giving amoxiclav, it helped. So much for the difference.
Amoxiclav contains clavulanic acid, which enhances the effect of Amoxicillin and has its own antibacterial activity. Amoxicillin is the main active ingredient of Amoxiclav. Amoxicillin does not contain clavuranic acid.
Amosiclav and Amoxicillin are the same drug. Both are classified as antibiotics, only Amosiclav also contains clavulinic acid. And there is only one in Amoxicillin.
There are microbes that produce an enzyme that can destroy the antibiotic, and they simply become immune to the drug. Therefore, regular amoxicillin may not be effective.
And clavulic acid blocks this bacterial enzyme, which destroys the antibiotic, and reliably protects it from destruction. And under the influence of the antibiotic, the microbes die.
Another difference is this. that Amosiclav is several times more expensive than Amoxicillin.
Essentially these are the same drug. The difference is that amoxiclav is two substances in one [actually, an antibiotic - Amoxicillin and, one might say, an anti-enzyme substance - clavulonic acid]. Hence the name amoxiclav (Amoxicillin + Clavulonic acid).
Amoxiclav is effective against those microorganisms that produce an enzyme that destroys “unprotected” Amoxicillin. It turns out that Amoxicillin is less effective than Amoxiclav.
The main active ingredient of both drugs is the antibiotic amoxicillin. However, only this is present in Amoxicillin, while Amoxiclav additionally contains clavulinic acid, which enhances the bactericidal effect of the drug. You can compare drug descriptions yourself using the following links:
On my own behalf, I can only say that I used Amoxiclav and in a number of cases it proved to be an effective drug, easing the course of the disease literally within a day. But (important!) since this is an antibiotic, once you start taking it, you need to complete the full course. Otherwise, a relapse of the disease is possible, as well as a decrease in the effectiveness of the drug with further use. - 4 years ago
Amoxiclav costs 4-5 times more than Amcoxicillin. But the difference is not only in price, but also in the composition of the drugs. The more expensive Amoxiclav contains clavulanic acid. If only urinary and respiratory tract infections can be treated with Amoxicillin, then infections of the skin, bone tissue and biliary tract are treated with Amoxiclav (that is, this drug has a wider spectrum of action).
Of course, the more expensive medical drug, namely Amoxiclav, is superior in quality to all its known generics. The thing is that ordinary Amoxicillin can be produced by any medical drug factory, but Amoxiclav is a patented medical drug, and only the developer has the right to produce it, who can also sell his own franchise for it.
The high price of Amoxiclava is due to the fact that it is a complex drug protected by a patent. It is exclusively released by the developer. But the patent for amoxicillin has already expired and any company can produce it. In 10 years, the patent for Amoxiclav will expire and many cheap analogues (“generics”) will appear on the market.
Source: http://www.bolshoyvopros.ru/questions/amoksicilin-i-amoksiklav-est-li-raznica.html
Amoxiclav, augmentin, amoxicillin or summed - which is better?
The drugs that we will consider in this article are antibacterial agents, which means they are capable of destroying pathogenic microflora.
These antibiotics have found their use not only for the treatment of infections of the respiratory system, but are also successfully used for all organs and systems of the body where pathogenic microorganisms have settled.
Briefly about the correct choice of antibiotics
Some antibacterial agents are weaker, while others, on the contrary, have a more pronounced effect. In the treatment of infectious diseases, there are certain rules, or the so-called hierarchy (order) of prescribing antibiotics.
In pediatric practice, in principle, as in adults, treatment always begins with penicillins: Augmentin, Amoxiclav, Amoxicillin. Parents often ask the question: “Which antibiotic should I choose for my child, which will work better and more effectively?” It is immediately worth noting that only a doctor is involved in the selection of antibacterial agents.
The ideal prescription of all antibiotics is considered to be a targeted choice of drug according to the results of bacterial culture together with an antibiogram, which clearly shows what caused the disease and to which drugs the bacterium is sensitive. This approach is “hit the mark.”
Many patients have repeatedly encountered the fact that after prescribing antibacterial therapy, the effect did not occur or was unsatisfactorily insignificant. This was followed by subsequent replacement with drugs from another group, and usually such treatment gave positive results.
If we talk about the pathology of the respiratory system, the drugs that we will consider below are considered the most popular in this field of medicine.
To answer the question about choosing antibiotics between amoxiclav, augmentin, summed and amoxicillin (which is better?), we will conduct a brief review of these drugs and find out their features.
Amoxicillin (Russia, Serbia, Vietnam)
The active ingredient of Amoxicillin is amoxicillin trihydrate. The drug belongs to the semi-synthetic penicillins with a broad spectrum of action. Shows high activity against some gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic bacteria: It is practically not exposed to the acidic environment of the gastrointestinal tract and is quickly absorbed through the intestinal walls.
A number of bacteria produce penicillinase, which has a detrimental effect on Amoxicillin, as a result of which microorganisms become resistant to this antibiotic.
The drug is available in capsules, tablets and powder for suspension. All forms are intended for internal use; Amoxicillin is not used for injection.
Main indications for the use of Amoxicillin
The list of indications is quite long:
Amoxicillin should not be taken in the following cases:
- allergic reactions to penicillins and cephalosporins;
- intolerance to one of the components of Amoxicillin;
- ARVI;
- lymphocytic leukemia;
- severe gastrointestinal diseases;
- Infectious mononucleosis;
- bronchial asthma, especially severe;
- hay fever;
- renal and liver failure;
- lactation period, pregnancy (relative contraindication - Amoxicillin is prescribed if necessary);
- intestinal dysbiosis.
Taking the drug is sometimes accompanied by adverse reactions:
- nausea;
- violation of taste;
- diarrhea;
- glossitis;
- vomiting (rare);
- headache;
- conjunctivitis;
- hives;
- anaphylactic shock (extremely rare);
- joint pain;
- insomnia;
- anxiety;
- ataxia;
- convulsions;
- candidiasis;
- the drug reduces the effect of contraceptives.
The price of amoxicillin for capsules 500 mg 20 pieces (Russia) is 80 rubles, the cost of tablets 500 mg No. 20 (Russia) is 52 rubles, granules for oral suspension 250 mg (Serbia) are estimated at approximately 95 rubles.
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Amoxiclav (Slovenia)
The drug belongs to the penicillin series, and is effective against a large number of bacteria (according to the original current instructions). The active ingredients are amoxicillin trihydrate and clavulanic acid (potassium clavulanate).
Amoxiclav is available in tablet form, powder for the preparation of a medicinal suspension (orally) and an injection solution. Tablets are used after 12 years, and when the patient’s weight is at least 40 kg. The powder (suspension) is popular in pediatrics and is allowed from the first days of a child’s life.
Main indications for use of Amoxiclav
The antibiotic is used for the following infectious processes:
- sinusitis (acute and chronic);
- tonsillitis, tonsillopharyngitis;
- pharyngitis;
- otitis;
- bronchitis;
- tracheobronchitis;
- frontal sinusitis;
- nasopharyngitis;
- sinusitis (ICD-10 - classification);
- pneumonia;
- pleural empyema;
- pleurisy;
- skin, gynecological, genitourinary, bone and other infections.
The drug should not be used in the following cases:
- allergic reactions to beta-lactam antibiotics (cephalosporins, penicillins, others);
- mononucleosis and during the diagnosis of this disease;
- cholestatic jaundice and liver reaction to Amoxiclav;
- intolerance to one of the components of Amoxiclav;
- lymphocytic leukemia;
- severe liver and kidney diseases;
- pseudomembranous colitis (relative contraindication, prescribed with caution).
Pregnancy and lactation - the decision to prescribe Amoxiclav is made only according to strict indications.
When taking the drug, side effects are usually insignificant. In most cases, Amoxiclav is well tolerated by patients, but the possibility of adverse reactions is not excluded, they are as follows:
- nausea;
- diarrhea;
- vomiting (extremely rare);
- headache;
- hives;
- allergies;
- disturbances in blood parameters (thrombocytopenia, increased liver function tests - ALT, AST, eosinophilia, others);
- insomnia;
- candidiasis;
- other.
The price for Amoxiclav 250 mg tablets (15 pieces) is 230 rubles, the cost of powder for a 250 mg suspension is 280 rubles.
Amoxicillin or Amoxiclav – which is better to choose?
Both drugs belong to the penicillin series and contain amoxicillin, but Amoxiclav is supplemented with clavulanic acid, thanks to which it significantly expands the spectrum of action. Therefore, Amoxiclav is indicated for more severe infections. Amoxicillin is “unarmed” against beta-lactomases, and this is its disadvantage.
Amoxiclav can be considered a more effective and improved drug. In relation to staphylococci, Amoxiclav is clearly superior to Amoxicillin.
The only advantage of Amoxicillin is its cost; it is much cheaper than Amoxiclav.
When choosing these two products, we can conclude: it is better to overpay for a more reliable drug than to then look for analogues, which will still be more expensive. Although it is not a fact that Amoxicillin will be perfect and will solve the problem with pathogenic microorganisms, and even at minimal cost.
Augmentin or Amoxiclav?
Augmentin is a structural analogue of Amoxiclav. They are completely similar in composition, indications, contraindications and other parameters. Therefore, to answer the frequently asked question: “Which is better – Augmentin or Amoxiclav?” is not difficult.
These antibiotics differ only in the manufacturer and a slight difference in price. The tablets cost approximately the same, and the powder for preparing the suspension from Augmentin is slightly cheaper - 150 rubles.
Some doctors prefer to use Augmentin more often for children, others do not see the point in comparison at all. In order not to rack your brains, entrust the choice of drug and treatment to your doctor.
Sumamed (Croatia)
Sumamed does not belong to the penicillins, like all the previous antibiotics under consideration, but belongs to the macrolides (azalide). The active ingredient is azithromycin dihydrate. The drug is produced in the form of capsules, tablets and granular powder from which an aromatic suspension with banana and cherry flavors is prepared.
The drug has a pronounced antimicrobial effect due to its ability to suppress bacterial cell protein synthesis. Penetrating intracellularly, Sumamed quickly destroys pathogenic flora. It is active against a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms.
It is better to prescribe this antibiotic after an antibiogram, due to the fact that there are a number of bacteria that are already initially resistant to it, for example, Staphylococcus spp. or Bacteroides fragilis.
The drug can be used in cases where the following diseases are sensitive to Sumamed, namely:
Diseases of all parts of the respiratory system:
Infectious diseases of the skin:
- cystitis;
- pyelonephritis;
- pyelitis;
- kidney stone disease complicated by bacteria;
- glomerulonephritis;
- urethritis.
The following factors are exceptions to taking the drug:
- individual intolerance to the composition of the product;
- renal and liver failure;
- the age of children for different forms of the drug is limited (tablets - up to 3 years, capsules - up to twelve years, provided that body weight is not less than 45 kg, for suspension - up to 6 months);
- not taken with ergotamine (alkoloid) and dihydroergotamine (alpha blocker).
- arrhythmias;
- myasthenia gravis;
- bradycardia;
- pregnancy and lactation;
- severe heart diseases of organic nature.
- itchy skin;
- hives;
- candidiasis;
- pseudomembranous colitis;
- changes in blood parameters;
- anaphylactic shock;
- headache;
- insomnia;
- rave;
- fainting;
- impairment of smell, vision, hearing.
- noise in ears;
- tachycardia;
- dyspnea.
The most interesting thing is that doctors consider Sumamed a very effective and safe drug, despite its huge list of “side effects” (see original instructions).
In practice, the remedy really works great, even a disease such as dry pleurisy goes away in three days. Short courses of therapy, as a rule, do not entail side effects.
The price of Sumamed depends on the form and dose of the drug, for example, capsules (250 mg) No. 6 cost 460 rubles, tablets (500 mg) No. 3 - 430 rubles, powder for suspension - 200 rubles.
Sumamed or Amoxiclav - which works better?
These drugs are completely different, belong to different groups, and differ in the main active ingredient. Amoxiclav is allowed to be used from the first months of life, Sumamed - from 6 months. Amoxiclav is cheaper, but Sumamed has short courses of treatment. It is usually prescribed for 3 days, and penicillins are taken for a week. The speed of action of Sumamed reduces the duration of the disease.
It is impossible to clearly say which drug is better, everything is individual. Each drug has its own advantages and disadvantages, and only the experience of a doctor will help suggest the right choice.
Antibiotics for sore throat
Often on Internet pages, patients ask questions about the treatment of certain diseases with antibiotics, in particular: “What is better to choose for a sore throat, which antibiotic will help quickly?”
Of course, this question cannot be answered unequivocally. Sore throat is an infectious disease caused by bacteria, most often streptococci or staphylococci. The disease can have a catarrhal form (mild) and more severe manifestations (follicular, lacunar, herpetic or necrotizing tonsillitis, up to the development of a retropharyngeal abscess).
Depending on the picture of the disease and the culture data obtained, an antibiotic is selected. They try to start treatment with penicillins (Augmentin, Amoxiclav), and if they are ineffective, they switch to macrolides (Azithromycin, Sumamed) or cephalosporins (Cefalexin, Cefatoxime, Cefazolin, Ceftriaxone).
Azithromycin is very often used in pediatric practice, but for successful treatment you need to know the correct instructions for using Azithromycin for children.
Independent selection of antibacterial agents is excluded due to the danger of the emergence of resistant (resistant) forms of the disease. Complex treatment of sore throat, where antibiotics play a leading role, allows you to eliminate the infectious process within five days and give a chance to exclude relapse of the disease in the future. Be healthy!
How to treat a sore throat with antibiotics from Doctor Komarovsky
And a little about secrets.
If you or your child are often sick and are treated with antibiotics alone, know that you are only treating the effect, not the cause.
So you simply “spare” money to pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies and get sick more often.
STOP! Stop feeding someone you don't know. You just need to boost your immunity and you will forget what it’s like to be sick!
There is a way for this! Confirmed by E. Malysheva, A. Myasnikov and our readers! Read more.
What is better to take - Amoxiclav or Amoxicillin?
Today, many serious diseases are treated in a matter of days with the help of antibiotics. Previously, diseases led to the inevitable death of the patient. How and when was work carried out that now saves the lives of millions of people around the world every year? What antibiotics are there? And how to make the right choice between Amoxiclav and Amoxicillin?
Almost 100 years have passed since then, during which in 1928 Alexander Fleming conducted research on disease-causing bacteria. He grew several colonies of staphylococci and at the same time saw that some of them were infected with ordinary mold, which appears on a stale piece of bread and turns it green.
Each of the surrounding mold colonies was surrounded by an area free of bacteria. The scientist determined that this mold secretes a substance that kills bacteria; he gave the substance he found the name penicillin. This is how the world’s first antibiotic appeared, and Fleming spoke about it in September 1929 during a meeting of the University of London Research Club. An article about this discovery was published in print media, but the message did not interest doctors.
Penicillin was not a very stable substance and quickly degraded during storage, but its effect was undeniable and much later, in 1938, biologists from Oxford, Florey and Chain also studied these bacteria and managed to obtain pure penicillin.
During the Second World War, there were a lot of sick and wounded people, there was a catastrophic shortage of medicines, and already in 1943 they began to produce medicine based on penicillin. All three scientists received the Nobel Prize for this achievement in medicine.
Types of antibiotics
Drugs of synthetic origin that do not have a natural analogue and have one, similar effect to an antibiotic, began to be called not an antibiotic, but chemotherapy with antibacterial properties. But over the past decades, many very strong antibacterial chemicals have been invented, similar in properties to natural antibiotics, and now this term is often used to refer not only to natural, but also to semi-synthetic compounds, or strong antibacterial chemotherapy drugs.
The large number of antibiotics and the difference in their effects on the human body became the reason for the classification and division of antibiotics into groups. Based on their characteristic effects on bacteria, antibiotics were divided into two groups:
- bacteriostatic (in this case, bacteria do not die, but do not multiply),
- bactericidal (this antibiotic kills bacteria and is then eliminated from the human body naturally).
Amoxiclav or amoxicillin
For colds and viral diseases, we are often prescribed antibiotics, which help the human body to recover quickly. The treating doctor prescribes a drug that is better suited for treating a particular disease or is easier to tolerate by the patient. What is the difference between one drug and another?
The difference between amoxiclav and amoxicillin
- Amoxiclav is an antibiotic that has been used everywhere in medical practice for almost thirty years. This drug Amoxiclava is made on the basis of natural and chemical components; it is classified as penicillins of semi-synthetic origin. Amoxiclav contains clavulanic acid and Amoxicillin. This antibiotic Amoxiclava has a good effect on bacteria, its action binds the bacterial membrane, while clavulanic acid together with Amoxicillin creates a complex barrier to the creation of new pathogenic microbes and provides reliable protection against further development of the disease.
Amoxicillin is an antimicrobial drug and belongs to the group of semi-synthetic penicillins. This Amoxicillin medicine has an antimicrobial effect, is easily absorbed and penetrates into the blood through the gastrointestinal tract, where it prevents the growth of bacteria and Amoxicillin accelerates the healing process. This antibiotic is used in the treatment of infectious diseases of the respiratory system, inflammatory processes in the kidneys and genitourinary system, as well as for diseases of the skin.
The different effects of the described drugs indicate the presence of clavulanic acid, the properties of which significantly expand the possibilities of action of the main component. The antibiotic Amoxicillin is a drug created on the basis of ampicillin; it also has an antibactericidal effect on the cell membranes of bacteria.
A significant disadvantage of a drug such as Amoxiclav is that it is completely defenseless against the production of lactamase, and in Amoxicillin preparations this action is performed by clavulanic acid. Now the drug amoxiclav is prescribed for the treatment of streptococcal diseases, but is occasionally used in the treatment of staphylococcal infectious diseases, because the pathogens are able to adapt to the environment and addiction to the drug occurs.
Choice of antibiotic
One type of antibacterial agent, such as Amoxiclav, has a weak effect or does not give a positive result, while others, on the contrary, have a more pronounced effect. When treating emerging infectious diseases, there are certain conditions for the attending physician to prescribe one or another antibiotic, depending on the difference that the antibiotics have in their composition.
Pediatricians begin treatment of their patients with the penicillin series of weaker antibiotics, such as Amoxiclav, and the selected antibacterial agent is prescribed in accordance with the disease and the results of laboratory tests.
The best choice of drug is considered to be one that is completely suitable for the identified disease, which is determined by an antibiogram and laboratory culture of bacteria. Such a study gives the best result for choosing an antibiotic.
Sometimes treatment with antibacterial agents does not produce a positive effect, and then treatment with antibiotics from a different group, which differ in composition, is prescribed, which most often gives a positive result.
Amoxiclav has an advantage over Amoxicillin only in its cost; it is much cheaper in comparison with other drugs of the antibacterial group, but in its properties Amoxiclav is inferior to more expensive drugs. Medicines are available in the form of tablets, powder and capsules.
Contraindications
Antibacterial drugs are usually well tolerated by patients, but sometimes minor adverse reactions may occur, such as allergies, nausea, headache, insomnia, skin rashes, and women may develop thrush.
Source: http://lor.guru/preparaty/tabletki/amoksiklav/chto-luchshe-prinimat-amoksiklav-ili-amoksicillin.html
Amoxiclav or amoxicillin - which is better?
There are many antibiotics that belong to the penicillin series. Among them are amoxiclav and amoxicillin, but there is a difference between them. Their main component is amoxicillin. The two drugs are in fact analogues of each other, but there is a slight difference.
What exactly is better to choose among these two drugs – amoxicillin or amoxiclav? In order to understand this, it is necessary to carry out a comparative description. These antibiotics act against infections in the respiratory system, but are also used to treat other pathologies, in particular places where pathogens accumulate.
Review of amoxicillin and amoxiclav
Amoxiclav is an antibiotic that has been used in medical practice for about three decades. It is considered a combination drug. Contains amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. The first has a bactericidal effect, due to which bacterial walls are inhibited.
The second component forms a joint complex with the first, resulting in an antibacterial effect. The bactericidal effect helps to cover a wide range of bacteria, incl. in relation to influences relatively gram-positive and gram-negative.
Its analogue, amoxicillin, is an antimicrobial drug that belongs to the category of semisynthetic penicillins. There is a bactericidal effect against gram-positive microbes. It is successfully absorbed when taken orally and ends up in fluids inside the body. The maximum concentration occurs after a couple of hours, but decreases at a rapid rate. The product can be used to treat infections in the respiratory tract, urinary tract and kidneys, gynecological and skin infections.
How are the two drugs different?
The main difference is the presence of clavulanic acid. It significantly increases the breadth of action of the active substance. Amoxicillin is a derivative of ampicillin; it has a bactericidal effect, which appears as a result of its effect on the cell wall of the bacterium. The biggest drawback is its absolute defenselessness against lactamase. This problem is solved by adding clavulanate. The drug is rarely prescribed to combat staphylococcal infections, because the pathogen develops resistance to it.
To understand what you need to choose – amoxiclav or amoxicillin, you need to know what their main differences are:
Amoxiclav is a semi-synthetic combination drug that contains amoxicillin and clavulonic acid.
Amoxiclav has a broader spectrum of action due to acid. Amoxicillin is prescribed for the treatment of streptococcal infections, but has no effect against staphylococci.
Amoxiclav is more expensive than its analogue.
To sum up the question: amoxiclav or amoxicillin, which is better, one conclusion can be drawn. It is better to pay more for a reliable drug than to later look for its analogues to continue treatment. It is not a fact that amoxicillin will be able to solve the problem with pathogenic microorganisms, although minimal costs will be required to purchase it.
You can use other analogues of these two drugs, given that the composition must contain clavulonic acid. But it is important to remember the individual characteristics of the body.
This is especially true for children, because the medicine may cause side effects and manifest itself in the form of allergies.
Indications and contraindications for both drugs
Amoxicillin is prescribed for sinusitis in any form, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis, laryngitis, sore throat, tracheitis, bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, erysipelas, sepsis.
The drug should not be taken if you are allergic to cephalosporins and penicillins, intolerant, acute respiratory viral infections, severe diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, bronchial asthma, liver and kidney failure, during pregnancy and lactation.
Amoxiclav is prescribed for tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis, pharyngitis, tracheobronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, pleurisy. And among the contraindications are allergies to beta-lactam antibiotics, mononucleosis and during its diagnosis, intolerance to the component, severe kidney and liver diseases, lymphocytic leukemia.
To determine the nature of the infection, the doctor prescribes a bacterial culture, the result of which will be ready within four days. For example, a sore throat can be treated from the first day, for this reason the doctor prescribes Amoxiclav. Its use will show better results than others.
To make sure the treatment is correct, you need to take a throat swab. After all, with all the benefits of Amoxiclav, there may be allergic reactions and side effects. In addition, after analysis, another pathology may be found - tonsillomycosis. In this case, antibiotics will not help; treatment with antifungal agents is necessary.
Side effects
As a result of using the drug, digestive upset may occur, liver function may be impaired, rash, urticaria, headache, and convulsions.
Source: http://gaimoritstop.ru/amoksiklav-ili-amoksicillin.html
Choose the best: Amoxiclav or Amoxicillin
Pharmacology of amoxicillin drug
Amoxicillin is an antimicrobial agent of the semisynthetic penicillin group, the effect of which is aimed at inhibiting aerobic gram-positive bactericidal microorganisms. The main component is amoxicillin. It has a wide range of applications - this is the treatment of infectious diseases of the respiratory tract, urinary system, kidneys, skin, as well as gynecological diseases of an infectious nature.
The antibiotic is perfectly absorbed in the body, with no side effects. But it is not recommended for the treatment of bacterial sore throat, because... such microorganisms exhibit increased resistance to penicillin.
An antibiotic is recommended in case of infection caused by microorganisms with hypersensitivity:
- For ENT diseases such as otitis media, tonsillitis, sinusitis and pharyngitis
- Diseases of the bronchi and lungs - pneumonia, bronchitis
- Pathologies of the urinary and reproductive systems, biliary tract - cystitis, urethritis and prostatitis, pyelonephritis, simple gonorrhea, cholestitis and cholangitis
- Skin tissue lesions - phlegmon, wound infection
- Infection of joints and bones – chronic osteomyelitis.
The following contraindications have been identified when using the drug:
- Hypersensitivity to the main components of the product
- Allergic manifestations to medications of the penicillin and cephalosporin group
- For infectious mononucleosis
- Lymphocytic leukemia.
In addition, side effects may occur:
- Allergies in the form of urticaria, angioedema, erythema, rhinitis and conjunctivitis
- Pain in joints and muscles
- Fever
- Anaphylactic shock (in rare cases)
- Vomiting attack, anorexia
- Constipation or, conversely, diarrhea
- Colitis
- Erythema multiforme, cholestatic jaundice, hepatitis
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis, etc.
The drug is also not prescribed for problems associated with the functioning of the kidneys and liver. The dose must be clearly adjusted, and patients must be under the supervision of the attending physician. The pediatric dosage is determined by the pediatrician; it is not recommended to prescribe an antibiotic on your own.
Composition and pharmacological action of Amoxiclav
Amoxiclav is an antibacterial drug, a combination product from a series of penicillin medications of semi-synthetic origin. The antibiotic contains clavulanic acid and the substance amoxicillin. The main effect is bactericidal, aimed at inhibiting various types of bacteria, gram-positive or gram-negative. Used for the treatment of streptococcal and staphylococcal infections.
Clavulanic acid, when it gets on the tonsil tissue, can inactivate the enzyme penicillinase, which opens the way to bacteria. The concentration of the constituent components of the drug is calculated in such a way that the entire contents of the medication in maximum quantities reach the cells of microorganisms and show a good result in destroying bacteria. Accordingly, for the treatment of sore throat caused by bacteria, it will be better than using pure amoxicillin.
This antibiotic has certain indications for use and is recommended for the following diseases:
- Acute or chronic sinusitis
- Otitis media
- Retropharyngeal abscess
- Pneumonia
- Urinary and biliary tract infections
- Gynecological infections
- Skin infection
- Infectious lesions of bone and joint tissue
- For preventive purposes in the postoperative period occurring with purulent-septic complications
- During surgical operations of the maxillofacial direction
- In orthopedics.
In practice, to determine the nature of the infection, the doctor prescribes a bacterial culture, which the laboratory does for about 4 days. But, for example, a sore throat needs to be treated from the first day, so the specialist immediately prescribes Amoxiclav drugs. Because its effect will be better than other medications.
But when prescribing such a drug, the doctor is obliged to take a swab from the throat to be sure that the treatment is correct. No matter how good Amoxiclav is, the patient may experience allergic manifestations with the development of side effects. In addition, after the analysis, another disease, tonsillomycosis, can be diagnosed. With this pathology, antibiotics have no effect; antifungal agents are prescribed instead.
Side effects that the drug may cause:
- Digestive disorders (nausea and vomiting, diarrhea and dyspepsia, flatulence, gastritis and anorexia, stomatitis)
- Impaired liver function, with the development of cholestatic jaundice
- Rash, swelling, urticaria
- Headache and dizziness, insomnia and hyperactivity
- Convulsions, inappropriate behavior
- Exanthematous pustulosis and erythema
- Crystallurgy
- Provoking interstitial nephritis.
- Individual intolerance to the drug
- Hepatitis
- Pregnancy and lactation period.
What is the difference
Amoxiclav, unlike other antibiotics, contains clavulanic acid, which has an enhanced antibacterial effect of the main component. Amoxicillin is a derivative of ampicillin that acts on the bacterial membrane. The main characteristic by which this drug differs is the absence of a protective reaction against lactamase, which is produced by bacteria. In this regard, today this antibiotic is not used to treat infections caused by staphylococcus, because Microorganisms quickly develop an addiction to the drug.
Clavulanic acid Amoxiclav itself has increased activity aimed at inhibiting the proliferation of bacteria, as a result, the antibiotic has a more effective effect on the infection, it is guaranteed to ensure delivery of the medicine to the source of the infection.
Although often the difference between one drug and another may be insignificant, if the bacteria are insensitive to Amoxicillin, then the patient’s recovery may be positive, and the rate of therapy will be the same as when using both drugs.
The difference between the drugs is also determined by their cost; the price of Amoxiclav is much higher. So the medicine - Ecobol-500 (containing amoxicillin) costs about 110 rubles, and Amoxiclav - 625 - 325 rubles.
You can use analogues of substances that also contain clavulanic acid and other components, but it is worth taking into account the individual characteristics of the body, especially children, so that such a drug does not cause side effects and allergic manifestations.
- Read also:
- Instructions for use of Amoxiclav tablets and powders, analogues, reviews
- Instructions for use of Avelox tablets and solution
- Instructions for use of the antibacterial drug Azitrus Forte
- Does Amoxiclav help with sore throat in adults and children?
Amoxicillin is weaker, but has fewer side effects. I drank both for prostatitis, they help normally, at least against the background of smartprost. But amoxicillin is better tolerated; amoxiclav upsets the intestines.
Source: http://lekhar.ru/lekarstva/antibakterialnye-preparaty/chto-luchshe-amoksiklav-ili-amoksicillin/
Amoxiclav Quiktab: how is it different from Amoxiclav and how to take it?
When selecting an antibiotic, doctors often give preference to a group of protected penicillins. How is Amoxiclav Quiktab different from regular Amoxiclav?
Amoxiclav
This antibiotic includes the following components:
The second component has weak antibacterial activity. Its main task is to inhibit the activity of beta-lactamases. These are special enzymes produced by bacteria. They destroy antibiotics and thus make microorganisms resistant to drugs.
Drugs from the penicillin group are especially susceptible to the action of beta-lactamases. However, the combination with clavulanic acid protects them from destruction and increases effectiveness.
Amoxiclav is able to destroy different types of bacteria:
This antibiotic is available in various dosage forms - suspensions, capsules containing 500, 875 or 1000 mg of amoxicillin, and vials (for intravenous administration).
It can be taken by both adults and children. According to strict indications, this penicillin antibiotic is allowed even during feeding and lactation.
What is its difference from Amoxiclav Quiktab?
Amoxiclav Quiktab
Amoxiclav Quiktab is also a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. The medicine is available in several dosages. Tablets may contain:
- 500 mg amoxicillin and 125 mg clavulanic acid;
- 875 mg amoxicillin and 125 mg clavulanic acid.
Amoxiclav Quiktab differs from its predecessor in dosage form. It is available in the form of dispersible tablets. This means that before taking the medicine it must be dissolved in water. The manufacturer recommends using at least 100 ml of liquid.
The tablets can also be chewed if necessary.
This dosage form makes it easier to take the antibiotic. In addition, the dissolved drug is absorbed more quickly in the gastrointestinal tract, which speeds up the onset of its action.
Dispersible tablets are easier to take and better tolerated, making them preferred by the patient.
The cost of Amoxiclav Quiktab is slightly higher than that of a regular antibiotic. But at the same time, the medicine remains accessible to most patients.
Side effects
Amoxiclav and Amoxiclav Quiktab are usually well tolerated. The most common side effects they experience are:
- Hypersensitivity reactions.
- Irritation of the stomach and intestines.
Allergies often occur when taking penicillin antibiotics. It can manifest itself as a rash, redness of the skin, and itching. This complication usually requires discontinuation of medications.
Also, when treated with various variants of Amoxiclav, patients often report abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating. This drug - regular and dispersed tablets - is also characterized by antibiotic-associated diarrhea. It is a side effect and disappears after the end of the course of treatment.
Source: http://elaxsir.ru/lekarstva/antibiotiki/chem-otlichaetsya-amoksiklav-kviktab-ot-amoksiklava.html