From the FDA Drug Label
The 200 mg/28.5 mg per 5 mL suspension or the 400 mg/57 mg per 5 mL suspension may be used in place of the 875 mg/125 mg tablet.
The equivalent elixir dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) for an 875mg/125mg tablet is 400 mg/57 mg per 5 mL suspension or 200 mg/28.5 mg per 5 mL suspension 1.
From the Research
The equivalent elixir dose of Augmentin that corresponds to an 875mg/125mg tablet is 20mL of the 400mg/57mg per 5mL suspension taken twice daily. This provides the same daily amount of amoxicillin and clavulanate as the tablet formulation. When measuring the liquid medication, use the measuring device provided with the prescription for accuracy. The suspension should be refrigerated after reconstitution and shaken well before each use to ensure proper distribution of the medication. The liquid formulation may be preferred for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets or when dose adjustments are needed. The equivalence is based on maintaining the same total daily dose of both active ingredients (amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium), which is important for achieving therapeutic antimicrobial coverage while minimizing the risk of bacterial resistance 2.
Some key points to consider when prescribing the elixir formulation include:
- The pharmacokinetic properties of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, including their absorption, distribution, and elimination, which can affect the efficacy of the medication 3.
- The potential for gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea and nausea, which are more common with the combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid than with amoxicillin alone 2.
- The importance of completing the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully cleared and to minimize the risk of resistance development 4.
- The need for regular monitoring of liver function and other laboratory parameters to detect any potential adverse effects of the medication 5.
Overall, the choice of formulation (tablet or elixir) should be based on the individual patient's needs and preferences, as well as the specific clinical context in which the medication is being prescribed.