Appropriate Augmentin Dosing for a 2-Year-Old Child Weighing 9.7 kg
For a 2-year-old female child weighing 9.7 kg, the appropriate dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) 600mg is 30 mg/kg/dose twice daily, which equals approximately 291 mg (4.85 mL) of the suspension per dose.
Dosage Calculation
The dosing of Augmentin for pediatric patients is based on weight and the specific formulation available. For a child weighing 9.7 kg:
- Since the child weighs less than 15 kg, the appropriate dosing is 30 mg/kg/dose twice daily
- Calculation: 9.7 kg × 30 mg/kg = 291 mg per dose
- For Augmentin 600 mg (typically available as 600 mg/5 mL suspension), this equals approximately 4.85 mL per dose
Administration Guidelines
- Administer the dose twice daily (every 12 hours)
- Give at the start of a meal to minimize gastrointestinal intolerance
- Ensure the suspension is well shaken before each use
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed (typically 5-7 days)
Important Considerations
- The child falls into the "≤15 kg (≤33 lb)" weight category for pediatric dosing
- Augmentin 600 mg likely refers to Augmentin ES-600, which contains 600 mg amoxicillin and 42.9 mg clavulanic acid per 5 mL
- This formulation is specifically designed for pediatric use in conditions such as otitis media where drug-resistant pathogens may be present
Monitoring
- Monitor for common side effects including diarrhea, nausea, and skin rash
- If severe diarrhea occurs, evaluate for C. difficile infection
- Ensure adequate hydration throughout the course of treatment
Storage of Reconstituted Suspension
- After reconstitution, the suspension must be refrigerated
- Discard any unused portion after 14 days
- Shake well before each use
This dosing recommendation aligns with established pediatric dosing guidelines for amoxicillin-clavulanate in children weighing less than 15 kg, ensuring appropriate antibiotic coverage while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.