Oral Ambroxol Dosage for Infants 1-12 Months
For infants aged 1-12 months, the recommended oral dose of ambroxol is 7.5 mg twice daily.
Dosage Guidelines
Ambroxol is a mucoactive agent used to treat respiratory conditions associated with abnormal mucus secretion. When prescribing for infants between 1-12 months, follow these specific guidelines:
- Standard dose: 7.5 mg twice daily
- Administration: Oral solution/syrup (typically available as 15 mg/5 mL)
- Duration: Usually 7-10 days for acute conditions, but may vary based on clinical response
Evidence and Safety Considerations
The recommended dosage is supported by clinical evidence showing efficacy in pediatric patients as young as 1 month old 1. A 2020 review of clinical studies involving nearly 1,300 pediatric patients reported consistent efficacy findings regardless of age, including patients as young as 1 month, with good tolerability 1.
Important Safety Considerations:
Contraindications:
- Not recommended for neonates under 1 month of age due to lack of established dosing guidelines 2
- Use with caution in infants with impaired renal or hepatic function
Monitoring:
- Watch for gastrointestinal side effects (mild bowel discomfort)
- Monitor for allergic reactions, though these are rare 3
Clinical Applications
Ambroxol has been used successfully in pediatric patients for:
- Acute bronchitis
- Bronchiolitis
- Conditions with abnormal mucus secretion and impaired mucus transport
In comparative studies, ambroxol has shown more rapid improvement in symptoms like cough and sputum production compared to alternatives such as acetylcysteine 4.
Administration Tips
- Give with meals to improve gastrointestinal tolerability
- Ensure accurate dosing using a calibrated oral syringe or dropper
- Maintain adequate hydration during treatment to optimize mucolytic effects
When to Consider Alternative Treatments
- If no improvement is seen after 3-5 days
- If respiratory distress worsens
- If fever persists or develops during treatment
Remember that ambroxol is primarily a symptomatic treatment. The underlying cause of respiratory symptoms should always be identified and treated appropriately.