Augmentin Dosage for Otitis Media in Children
Dosage Calculation
- For a child with otitis media weighing 35 kg, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a dosage of 80-90 mg/kg/day of the amoxicillin component, divided into two doses, which equals approximately 1400-1575 mg twice daily 1, 2, 3
- The dosage calculation is: 80-90 mg/kg/day × 35 kg = 2800-3150 mg/day of amoxicillin, divided into 2 doses = 1400-1575 mg per dose, given twice daily 1, 4
Formulation Selection
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the high-dose amoxicillin/clavulanate suspension (typically 600 mg/5 mL or 400 mg/5 mL) for children with otitis media 3
- A 14:1 ratio of amoxicillin to clavulanate is preferred to minimize gastrointestinal side effects 3
Considerations for Treatment Selection
- Amoxicillin/clavulanate is indicated for children who have taken amoxicillin in the previous 30 days, have concurrent conjunctivitis, attend daycare, or have moderate to severe illness 3
- For children with penicillin allergy and non-type I hypersensitivity reaction, cefdinir, cefpodoxime, or cefuroxime can be used, while type I hypersensitivity reactions require consultation with a specialist 1, 3
Monitoring Response to Treatment
- Children should begin to show clinical improvement within 24-48 hours of starting therapy, and if no improvement is seen within 48-72 hours, reassessment is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and consider changing the antibiotic 1, 2