What is the maximum dose of amoxicillin (amoxicillin) per day for a 2-year-old child weighing 12.247 kg?

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Last updated: June 7, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

The maximum daily dose of amoxicillin for a 2-year-old child weighing 12.247 kg is approximately 1,100 mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses, considering the high-dose recommendation for severe infections or those at risk of resistant organisms. This dosage is based on the guidelines provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which suggest a high-dose amoxicillin regimen of 80-90 mg/kg per day for children with acute bacterial sinusitis who are at risk of infection with resistant organisms, such as those attending childcare or having been treated with an antimicrobial agent within the last 4 weeks 1. For this child, at 90 mg/kg/day, the calculation would be 90 mg × 12.247 kg = 1,102.33 mg, rounded to 1,100 mg daily. This would typically be administered as 367 mg three times daily or 550 mg twice daily.

  • Key considerations for this dosage include:
    • The child's age and weight
    • The severity of the infection
    • The risk of infection with resistant organisms
    • The potential for side effects, such as diarrhea, rash, or nausea
  • It's crucial to follow the prescribed course of antibiotics as directed by a healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance 1.
  • The dosage may need adjustment based on the specific infection being treated and the child's clinical response, highlighting the importance of close monitoring by a healthcare provider 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

Table 1 ... 25 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours or 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours ... 45 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours or 40 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours

The maximum dose of amoxicillin per day for a 2-year-old child weighing 12.247 kg is 45 mg/kg/day. To calculate the dose: 12.247 kg x 45 mg/kg = 551.115 mg per day, which can be divided into doses every 12 hours. So the maximum dose is approximately 551 mg per day or 275.6 mg every 12 hours [ 2 ].

From the Research

Amoxicillin Dosage for a 2-Year-Old Child

  • The maximum dose of amoxicillin per day for a child is typically determined based on the child's weight.
  • According to the study 3, the optimal dose of oral amoxicillin for children with community-acquired pneumonia is between 35-50 mg/kg/d or 70-90 mg/kg/d.
  • For a 2-year-old child weighing 12.247 kg, the maximum dose would be:
  • 35-50 mg/kg/d: 12.247 kg x 50 mg/kg/d = 612.35 mg/d
  • 70-90 mg/kg/d: 12.247 kg x 90 mg/kg/d = 1102.23 mg/d
  • However, it's essential to note that the dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the child's overall health.
  • The studies 4, 5, 6, and 7 do not provide specific dosage recommendations for a 2-year-old child weighing 12.247 kg.
  • It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage of amoxicillin for a specific child, as they can assess the child's individual needs and provide personalized guidance.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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