What is the typical duration of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) treatment for a dog bite?

Duration of Augmentin Treatment for Dog Bites

For dog bite wounds, treat with amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) for 3-5 days. 1

Treatment Duration Based on Clinical Context

Standard Prophylactic Treatment

• Preemptive antimicrobial therapy should be given for 3-5 days for patients with high-risk features including immunocompromised status, asplenia, advanced liver disease, edema of the affected area, moderate to severe injuries, or wounds that may have penetrated the periosteum or joint capsule 1
• This 3-5 day duration represents the standard recommendation from the Infectious Diseases Society of America for prophylactic treatment of animal bites 1

Extended Treatment for Established Infections

• If infection develops despite initial prophylaxis, treatment duration extends significantly:
  • Septic arthritis requires 4 weeks of antibiotic therapy 2
  • Osteomyelitis requires 6 weeks of antibiotic therapy 2

Dosing Recommendations

• Standard oral dosing is amoxicillin-clavulanate 875/125 mg twice daily for animal bites 2
• This formulation provides coverage against both aerobic bacteria (including Pasteurella multocida, the most common pathogen in dog bites) and anaerobic bacteria commonly found in bite wounds 1

Critical Follow-Up Timing

• All patients must be evaluated within 48-72 hours to assess for signs of infection and wound healing progress 1
• If infection progresses despite appropriate antimicrobial therapy and ancillary measures, hospitalization should be considered 2

Important Clinical Caveats

• The 3-5 day duration applies specifically to prophylactic treatment in high-risk wounds, not established infections 1
• Hand wounds and deep wounds near joints or bones require special attention due to higher infection risk and potential for serious complications 1
• Immunocompromised patients need more aggressive follow-up monitoring due to elevated infection risk 1