Can You Take Advil With Augmentin?
In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses whether or not you can safely combine Advil and Augmentin.

Question
Can I take Advil with Amox/Clav?

Answered by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist
Staff
Last updated May 10, 2025
Key points
- There is no known interaction between Augmentin (amoxicillin; clavulanic acid) and Advil (ibuprofen).
Answer
Yes, it is safe to combine Advil (ibuprofen) and Augmentin (amoxicillin; clavulanic acid) as there is no known interaction between the two.
We answered a similar question not too long ago, where someone asked if Advil was safe to take with amoxicillin (which is one component of the drug you asked about). Advil is alone safe with amoxicillin alone (i.e., not combined with clavulanic acid).
Augmentin Vs. Amoxicillin
The only difference between your question and the one we answered before is that we are talking now about Augmentin, which is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid.
Amoxicillin is an aminopenicillin, which works to eradicate bacteria by targeting the bacterial cell wall. The cell wall is made up of a complex structure of molecules, including a substance called peptidoglycan. Amoxicillin interferes with the formation of this peptidoglycan, causing the cell wall to weaken and eventually break down.
One of the resistance mechanisms of some bacteria is the production of beta-lactamase, an enzyme that destroys certain antibiotics (such as amoxicillin).
Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor. In combination with antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clavulanic acid works by blocking the action beta-lactamase, which helps antibiotics maintain their potency, allowing them to effectively target and kill the bacteria.
Pain Medications With Augmentin
Like with amoxicillin, Advil is safe with Augmentin. In fact, most pain relievers are safe to take with Augmentin. This also includes Aleve (naproxen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen).
Final Words
Thank you for reaching out to us! I hope this helps.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
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