Augmentin XR is an extended-release prescription antibiotic that combines amoxicillin with clavulanate potassium to treat bacterial sinus infections and community-acquired pneumonia, especially when resistant bacteria are involved.

What Is Augmentin XR?

Augmentin XR is the brand name for Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium extended-release tablets. It belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics, combined with a beta-lactamase inhibitor (clavulanate) that protects the amoxicillin from being broken down by resistant bacteria.

Here are the basics:

• Brand name: Augmentin XR
• Generic name: Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium extended-release
• Drug class: Penicillin-class antibacterial / beta-lactamase inhibitor combination
• Manufacturer: Originally GlaxoSmithKline (GSK); generic versions now available from Sandoz and others
• Formulation: Extended-release bilayer tablets (1000 mg amoxicillin / 62.5 mg clavulanic acid per tablet)
• Controlled substance: No — Augmentin XR is not a controlled substance

The "XR" stands for extended-release. This is important because Augmentin XR is a different medication from regular Augmentin — it delivers a higher sustained dose of amoxicillin over a longer period, which makes it effective against bacteria that have developed some resistance to standard penicillin doses.

What Is Augmentin XR Used For?

Augmentin XR is FDA-approved for two conditions:

1. Acute bacterial sinusitis — Specifically when caused by confirmed or suspected beta-lactamase-producing bacteria (like H. influenzae, M. catarrhalis) or Streptococcus pneumoniae with reduced sensitivity to penicillin.
2. Community-acquired pneumonia — When caused by similar resistant organisms, including beta-lactamase producers and penicillin-resistant S. pneumoniae.

Doctors may sometimes prescribe Augmentin XR off-label for other infections like complicated urinary tract infections or chronic sinusitis with suspected resistant organisms.

It's worth noting that Augmentin XR is specifically designed for situations where standard-dose amoxicillin might not be strong enough — the extended-release formulation delivers higher amoxicillin levels in the blood for a longer time.

How Is Augmentin XR Taken?

The typical dose is:

• Two tablets (2000 mg amoxicillin / 125 mg clavulanate) every 12 hours
• Duration: 10 days for sinusitis, 7 to 10 days for pneumonia

Important instructions:

• Take at the start of a meal — Food improves amoxicillin absorption and reduces stomach upset.
• Avoid high-fat meals — High-fat food decreases clavulanate absorption.
• Swallow tablets whole or break at the score line — Do not crush or chew. The extended-release mechanism depends on the tablet structure.
• Complete the full course — Even if you feel better after a few days, stopping early can allow bacteria to survive and develop resistance.

Who Should Not Take Augmentin XR?

Augmentin XR is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• Penicillin or cephalosporin allergy — Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic. A serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can be life-threatening.
• History of liver problems from amoxicillin/clavulanate — If you've had cholestatic jaundice or hepatic dysfunction from this combination before, do not take it again.
• Severe kidney impairment — Contraindicated if creatinine clearance is below 30 mL/min.
• Hemodialysis — Not recommended for patients on dialysis.
• Mononucleosis — Taking amoxicillin during mono causes a high incidence of skin rash.

If any of these apply to you, your doctor can prescribe an alternative antibiotic such as Levofloxacin, Doxycycline, or Cefdinir.

How Much Does Augmentin XR Cost?

Cost varies widely depending on whether you have insurance, use a coupon, or pay cash:

• Brand-name cash price: $80 to $250 for a 20-tablet course
• Generic with coupon: As low as $30 to $60 for the same 20 tablets
• With insurance: Generic amoxicillin/clavulanate ER is typically a Tier 2 preferred generic. Copays are usually $5 to $15. Brand-name may require prior authorization.
• Medicare Part D: Generally covers the generic with low copays.

Coupon cards from GoodRx, SingleCare, and RxSaver can reduce costs significantly for uninsured patients. Check our full guide to saving money on Augmentin XR.

If you're having trouble affording your medication, GSK's Patient Assistance Foundation (GSKForYou) and organizations like NeedyMeds and RxAssist offer programs for eligible patients.

Availability in 2026

Augmentin XR has faced intermittent supply issues. Brand-name Augmentin XR has been discontinued by GSK in some markets, but generic versions remain available. Availability varies by region — use Medfinder to check pharmacy stock near you.

Final Thoughts

Augmentin XR is a targeted antibiotic for when standard-strength amoxicillin isn't enough. It's effective against resistant bacteria that cause sinusitis and pneumonia, generally well-tolerated, and available as an affordable generic. The most important things to remember: take it with food, finish the full course, and make sure you're getting the extended-release formulation (not regular Augmentin).

For more information, read about Augmentin XR side effects, how Augmentin XR works, and drug interactions to be aware of.