Recommended Dosage Frequency of Augmentin for Urinary Tract Infections
For treating urinary tract infections in adults, Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) should be administered as one 500 mg/125 mg tablet every 8 hours or one 875 mg/125 mg tablet every 12 hours. 1
Dosing Options Based on FDA Label
The FDA-approved dosing regimens for Augmentin in treating UTIs include:
- Standard dosing: 500 mg/125 mg every 8 hours
- Higher dose option: 875 mg/125 mg every 12 hours (for more severe infections)
Both regimens should be taken at the start of a meal to enhance absorption of clavulanate potassium and minimize gastrointestinal intolerance. 1
Clinical Evidence Supporting Dosing Frequency
Clinical studies have demonstrated efficacy of Augmentin in treating urinary tract infections with the following regimens:
- 250 mg amoxicillin plus 125 mg clavulanic acid every 8 hours for 7 days showed microbiological cure rates of 84% one week after treatment and 67% one month later in patients with recurrent UTIs. 2
- 375 mg three times daily (tds) has been shown to be well-tolerated with minimal gastrointestinal side effects. 3
Special Considerations
Severity-Based Dosing
- For uncomplicated UTIs: 500 mg/125 mg every 8 hours is typically sufficient
- For more severe infections or respiratory tract infections: 875 mg/125 mg every 12 hours or 500 mg/125 mg every 8 hours 1
Duration of Treatment
While the FDA label doesn't specify exact duration for UTIs, clinical evidence suggests:
- 7 days for uncomplicated UTIs 2
- 5-14 days depending on infection severity and clinical response
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Incorrect tablet substitution: Two 250 mg/125 mg tablets should NOT be substituted for one 500 mg/125 mg tablet, as they contain different amounts of clavulanic acid 1
Taking medication without food: Augmentin should be taken at the start of a meal to minimize GI intolerance and enhance clavulanate absorption 1
Inadequate duration: Stopping treatment prematurely can lead to treatment failure and recurrence
Not adjusting for renal impairment: Dosage adjustment may be necessary for patients with severe renal impairment
Alternative Considerations
For patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets, the suspension formulations can be used:
- 125 mg/31.25 mg per 5 mL or 250 mg/62.5 mg per 5 mL suspension can replace the 500 mg/125 mg tablet
- 200 mg/28.5 mg per 5 mL or 400 mg/57 mg per 5 mL suspension can replace the 875 mg/125 mg tablet 1
By following these dosing recommendations, clinicians can optimize treatment outcomes while minimizing adverse effects in patients with urinary tract infections.