Compare Augmentin vs. Cleocin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Treats bacterial infections.

Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate) is first-choice antibiotic for most common types of infections. However, it may not work against more serious or uncommon types of infections.

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 1034 reviewsforAugmentin
Treats acne.

Cleocin (clindamycin) is proven to be effective at treating acne when combined with another acne medicine and is available in a variety of formulations.

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3.5/ 5 average rating with 115 reviewsforCleocin
Upsides
  • Available as generic product.
  • Available in tablet, capsule, and liquid forms.
  • Used to treat most common types of bacterial infections.
  • Side effects are generally not too bad compared to other antibiotics.
  • Available in generic.
  • Comes in different formulations (gel, solution, lotion, foam) to fit your preferences.
  • Works well for the kind of acne that causes large, red, and swollen pimples.
Downsides
  • Many bacteria have developed resistance to this antibiotic.
  • Can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Birth control pills may not work as well to prevent pregnancy when taking this medication.
  • Foam formulation can cause headaches.
  • You will likely have to use another acne medicine along with Cleocin (clindamycin) since it is not as effective by itself.
  • Is only preferred for mild to moderate acne. If you have severe acne your doctor will most likely prescribe an oral medication.
  • If you only have comedonal acne (small skin-colored bumps on the skin) without any red, swollen pimples, your doctor may give you an alternative medicine.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Chewable tablet
  • Extended release
  • Liquid
  • Gel
  • Foam
  • Solution
  • Lotion
Price
Lowest price
$42.72
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Lowest price
$125.46
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Reviews
1034 reviews so far
68%
saidit'sworth it
52%
saiditworked well
13%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate)?

Leave a review
115 reviews so far
57%
saidit'sworth it
43%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Cleocin (clindamycin)?

Leave a review
Side effects
3possible side effects
  • Diarrhea
    9%
  • Nausea
    3%
  • Skin rash and hives
    3%
See more detailed side effects
9possible side effects
  • Dryness
    23%
  • Oiliness/Oily skin
    18%
  • Redness
    16%
  • Burning
    11%
  • Burning/Itching
    11%
  • Peeling
    11%
  • Itching
    11%
  • Burning where applied
    6%
  • Headache
    3%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Serious allergic reaction
    • History of penicillin allergy
    • History of multiple allergies
  • Liver damage
    • Existing liver problems
    • Taking other medicines that harm the liver
  • Superinfection
    • Taking Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate) for a long time
    • Older age
    • Taking immunosuppressant medicines
  • Rash
    • Mononucleosis
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Skin irritation
    • Using other medicines or products that irritate the skin
    • Eczema
    • Extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
  • Severe diarrhea and stomach cramps
    • Using Cleocin (clindamycin) for a long time
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate)
Learn more about Cleocin (clindamycin)