Amoxicillin Dosage for 7-Year-Old with Dental Swelling and Redness
For a 7-year-old child with dental swelling and redness, the recommended dosage of amoxicillin is 45 mg/kg/day divided into 2 doses (every 12 hours) or 40 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses (every 8 hours). 1, 2
Dosing Recommendations
For mild to moderate dental infections in a 7-year-old child:
- 25 mg/kg/day divided into 2 doses (every 12 hours) OR
- 20 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses (every 8 hours) 2
For severe dental infections in a 7-year-old child:
- 45 mg/kg/day divided into 2 doses (every 12 hours) OR
- 40 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses (every 8 hours) 2
Duration of Treatment
- Treatment should continue for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours beyond the time that the patient becomes asymptomatic 2
- For dental infections, a typical course is 5-7 days, depending on clinical response 1
- It is recommended that there be at least 10 days' treatment for any infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes to prevent the occurrence of acute rheumatic fever 2
Administration Guidelines
- Amoxicillin should be taken at the start of a meal to minimize gastrointestinal intolerance 2
- The oral suspension should be shaken well before using 2
- After reconstitution, any unused portion must be discarded after 14 days 2
Special Considerations
- For children with penicillin allergy, alternative antibiotics should be considered 1
- For severe infections or suspected methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), additional or alternative antibiotics may be necessary 1
- If there is no clinical improvement after 48-72 hours of treatment, the patient should be reassessed and the antibiotic regimen potentially changed 1
Potential Adverse Effects
- Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting 1
- Rash, urticaria, and other allergic reactions may occur 1
- Serious but rare adverse effects include anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis 1
Follow-up Recommendations
- Clinical follow-up is recommended if symptoms do not improve within 48-72 hours 2
- If swelling increases, fever develops, or the child's condition worsens, immediate reassessment is necessary 1
Remember that dental infections in children can progress rapidly, and prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications. If the infection is severe or spreading, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be required.