What should I say when calling in a prescription for amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) to the pharmacy for a pediatric patient with a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Calling in a Prescription for Amoxicillin-Clavulanate for Pediatric UTI

When calling in a prescription for amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) for a pediatric patient with UTI, provide the following information: patient's name, date of birth, weight in kg, dosage of 20-40 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses for 7-14 days, and specify that the medication should be taken with food to reduce GI upset.

Essential Information to Provide to the Pharmacy

1. Patient identification information:

   • Full name
   • Date of birth
   • Address (if required)
   • Insurance information

2. Prescription details:

   • Medication: Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin)
   • Patient's weight in kilograms
   • Dosage: 20-40 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses 1
   • Duration: 7-14 days (typically 7-10 days for uncomplicated UTI) 1, 2
   • Formulation: Oral suspension (specify concentration - typically 200 mg/5mL, 400 mg/5mL, or 600 mg/5mL)
   • Administration instructions: Take with food or meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset 3

3. Prescriber information:

   • Your name
   • NPI number
   • DEA number (if applicable)
   • Contact information

Sample Script for Calling the Pharmacy

"Hello, I'd like to call in a prescription for [patient name], date of birth [DOB]. The patient weighs [X] kilograms and has a diagnosis of urinary tract infection. I'm prescribing amoxicillin-clavulanate oral suspension [specify concentration] at a dose of [X] mg, three times daily for [7-14] days. Please instruct the parent/caregiver to give the medication with food, keep the suspension refrigerated, and shake well before each use. The prescription is being called in by Dr. [your name], NPI [number]."

Important Clinical Considerations

• Dosing calculation: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 20-40 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses for UTIs in children 1, 2

• Duration: Treatment should last 7-14 days, with 7 days typically sufficient for uncomplicated lower UTIs 1, 2

• Administration guidance: Instruct parents to:

  • Give with meals to reduce GI upset 3
  • Keep suspension refrigerated 3
  • Shake well before using 3
  • Complete the full course even if symptoms improve 3

• Potential adverse effects: Inform parents about possible diarrhea, which is common with amoxicillin-clavulanate, and to contact the physician if diarrhea is severe or lasts more than 2-3 days 3

• Follow-up: Recommend clinical reassessment within 48-72 hours if symptoms don't improve 2

By providing complete and accurate information when calling in this prescription, you'll ensure appropriate treatment for the pediatric UTI while minimizing potential medication errors and adverse effects.