Amoxicillin cost: how to pay less for common antibiotics

What amoxicillin treats

Amoxicillin is a penicillin-like antibiotic used for bacterial infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis and infections of the ears, nose, throat, skin and urinary tract. It’s also used with other medicines to treat H. pylori, a stomach infection that can cause ulcers (MedlinePlus).

It comes as capsules, tablets, chewable tablets and a liquid, and is usually taken every 8 or 12 hours. Take it until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better, so the infection is fully treated (MedlinePlus). Stopping early can mean a second visit and a second prescription. Ask your pharmacist whether capsules, tablets or the liquid cost less for the same dose, especially for a child who needs the liquid.

How it compares with other common antibiotics

• Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin). Adds clavulanic acid, which stops some bacteria from breaking down amoxicillin. It’s used for ear, lung, sinus, skin and urinary tract infections (MedlinePlus). The combination is also sold as a generic, so compare both if your doctor says either would work.
• Azithromycin (Z-Pak). A macrolide antibiotic, usually taken once a day. The Z-Pak brand is no longer sold, but generic alternatives may be available (MedlinePlus).
• Cephalexin (Keflex). A cephalosporin antibiotic taken every 6 or 12 hours for 7 to 14 days. It’s sometimes used for people allergic to penicillin (MedlinePlus).

The right choice depends on the infection, so don’t swap drugs on your own. If price is a problem, tell your prescriber before you leave the office; a lower-cost option may treat the same infection.

Your penicillin allergy label can cost you

CDC says about 10% of U.S. patients report a penicillin allergy, but fewer than 1% of them are truly allergic when evaluated. A penicillin allergy label can lead to second-line antibiotics that may work less well, raise the risk of resistance and cost more. Many labels come from a childhood rash, a family history or side effects like diarrhea (CDC). Ask your doctor whether you should be tested. Evaluation may include a skin test or a supervised dose of amoxicillin (CDC). Don’t take a penicillin-type drug on your own if you’ve been told you’re allergic.

Safety tips that also save money

• Birth control. MedlinePlus says amoxicillin may make hormonal birth control less effective, so ask about a backup method while you take it (MedlinePlus). See our birth control cost guide.
• Liquid storage. Keep the liquid tightly closed, preferably in the refrigerator, and throw away any left after 14 days (MedlinePlus).
• Overdose. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. If the person has collapsed, isn’t breathing or has a seizure, call 911 (MedlinePlus).
• Don’t save leftovers. Your prescription is usually not refillable. If you still have symptoms after you finish, call your doctor (MedlinePlus).

How to pay less

• Choose the generic. FDA says generic prices tend to drop as more companies make the same drug (FDA).
• Compare cash prices. Prices for the same prescription can differ from one pharmacy to the next. Check a free discount card such as RxGo before you fill.
• Check your plan. Look up the drug on your plan’s list and compare the copay with a discount price (HealthCare.gov).
• No insurance? HRSA-funded health centers charge on a sliding scale. Find one near you.