Compare Novamox (Amoxicillin) with Other Antibiotics: What Works Best?

• Nov, 3 2025
• 0

When your doctor prescribes Novamox, you’re getting amoxicillin - one of the most common antibiotics used worldwide. But what if it doesn’t work? Or you’re allergic? Or it’s too expensive? You’re not alone in asking: amoxicillin alternatives exist, and not all are created equal.

What is Novamox, really?

Novamox is just a brand name for amoxicillin, a penicillin-type antibiotic. It kills bacteria that cause infections like ear infections, sinusitis, strep throat, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. It’s usually taken as a tablet, capsule, or liquid, twice or three times a day for 5 to 10 days. In Australia, it’s available by prescription only.

Amoxicillin works by breaking down the cell walls of bacteria. It’s broad-spectrum, meaning it hits a wide range of bacteria - but not all. It doesn’t work against viruses (like colds or flu), and it’s not effective against certain resistant strains like MRSA.

Side effects? Common ones include nausea, diarrhea, and rash. About 1 in 10 people report mild stomach upset. Serious allergic reactions (swelling, trouble breathing) are rare but need immediate care.

Why look for alternatives to Novamox?

People switch from amoxicillin for several real reasons:

• They had a rash or stomach issues with it
• The infection didn’t improve after 3-4 days
• They’re allergic to penicillin (about 10% of people say they are, though only 1-2% are truly allergic)
• They’re in a region where resistance to amoxicillin is rising - especially for ear infections and sinusitis
• Cost or availability - some alternatives are cheaper or easier to get

It’s not about swapping for fun. It’s about matching the right drug to the bug - and to your body.

Common alternatives to Novamox

Here are the most frequently prescribed alternatives, based on Australian prescribing guidelines and clinical evidence:

1. Amoxicillin-Clavulanate (Co-amoxiclav)

This is amoxicillin + clavulanic acid - a combo that blocks bacteria from breaking down the antibiotic. It’s stronger against resistant strains. Often used when amoxicillin alone fails, especially for sinus infections, bite wounds, or recurrent ear infections.

Downside? More stomach upset. Diarrhea happens in up to 25% of people. It’s also more expensive than plain amoxicillin.

2. Cephalexin (Keflex, Ceporex)

A first-generation cephalosporin. Often used when someone says they’re allergic to penicillin - though cross-reactivity is possible in about 5-10% of cases. It’s good for skin infections, bone infections, and some respiratory bugs.

It’s taken 3-4 times a day, which is less convenient than amoxicillin’s twice-daily dosing. But it’s often cheaper and works well where amoxicillin doesn’t.

3. Doxycycline

A tetracycline antibiotic. Not a penicillin, so safe for most penicillin-allergic people. Used for sinus infections, chest infections, Lyme disease, and acne. Also used for tick-borne illnesses common in rural Australia.

It’s taken once or twice daily. Must be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water - and you can’t lie down for 30 minutes after. It makes your skin super sensitive to sunlight. Avoid if you’re under 12 or pregnant.

4. Azithromycin (Zithromax)

A macrolide antibiotic. Often called the "Z-pack" because it’s usually taken for just 3-5 days. Popular for respiratory infections, especially when people want a shorter course.

It’s less effective than amoxicillin for strep throat and ear infections, but better for atypical pneumonia (like walking pneumonia). It’s also used when someone has a true penicillin allergy.

Side effects? Diarrhea, nausea, and rare heart rhythm changes - especially in older people or those with existing heart conditions.

5. Clindamycin

Used for skin and soft tissue infections, especially if MRSA is suspected. Also an option for penicillin-allergic patients with dental infections.

Big risk: C. diff diarrhea. This can be life-threatening. It’s not a first-line choice unless other options are ruled out.

Comparison table: Novamox vs. top alternatives

When should you NOT switch?

Don’t assume an alternative is better just because it’s "stronger" or "newer." Amoxicillin is still first-line for good reason:

• It’s effective for the most common infections
• It’s cheap - often under $10 with a PBS subsidy in Australia
• It’s safe for kids and pregnant women
• It has the least impact on gut bacteria compared to broader-spectrum drugs

Switching without reason can lead to more side effects, higher cost, and even antibiotic resistance. If amoxicillin works, stick with it.

What about natural or herbal alternatives?

You’ll see claims about garlic, honey, oregano oil, or echinacea as "natural antibiotics." But here’s the truth: none have enough clinical evidence to replace antibiotics for bacterial infections like pneumonia or strep throat.

Honey can help soothe a sore throat - but it won’t kill the bacteria causing it. Garlic has some lab studies showing antibacterial effects, but not at doses you can safely swallow.

Using these instead of prescribed antibiotics can delay real treatment. That’s dangerous. Infections don’t wait.

What to do if Novamox doesn’t work

If you’ve taken amoxicillin for 48-72 hours and feel worse - or if fever returns - contact your doctor. Don’t just stop or double the dose.

Your doctor might:

• Check for a viral infection (like flu or mono)
• Order a throat swab or imaging (like a sinus X-ray)
• Switch to amoxicillin-clavulanate
• Test for resistant strains

Don’t self-prescribe. Antibiotics aren’t interchangeable. The wrong choice can make things worse.

How to reduce side effects

If you’re on amoxicillin or any alternative:

• Take it with food if stomach upset occurs - unless it says "on empty stomach" (like doxycycline)
• Stay hydrated
• Consider a probiotic (like Lactobacillus) during and after treatment - some studies show it reduces antibiotic-related diarrhea
• Finish the full course, even if you feel better

Stopping early is one of the biggest reasons bacteria become resistant. That’s not just your problem - it’s everyone’s.

Final takeaway

Novamox (amoxicillin) is still the go-to for most common bacterial infections. But it’s not the only option. Alternatives like amoxicillin-clavulanate, cephalexin, doxycycline, and azithromycin each have their place - based on the infection, your allergy history, and resistance patterns.

The key is not to pick the strongest drug. It’s to pick the right one. That’s why you need a doctor’s advice. Don’t swap antibiotics based on a friend’s story or a Google search. Infections are personal. So should your treatment be.