What is the maximum dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) for pediatric patients?

From the Guidelines

The maximum daily dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) for pediatric patients is 90 mg/kg/day of the amoxicillin component, divided into two doses given every 12 hours, with a maximum dose of 4000 mg of amoxicillin per day, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study 1.

Key Considerations

• The dosing is based on the child's weight, and it's essential to not exceed the maximum dose to avoid potential side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or allergic reactions.
• For infants under 3 months, the maximum dose is not explicitly stated in the provided evidence, but for children over 3 months, the maximum dose is 90 mg/kg/day divided into two doses.
• The clavulanate component has a narrower therapeutic window, which is why dosing is carefully controlled.

Important Details

• Always measure liquid Augmentin precisely using the provided measuring device.
• Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
• The recommended dose may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the child's individual needs.

Evidence-Based Recommendations

• The study published in 2019 in the Journal of Microbiology, Immunology and Infection 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence for the maximum dose of Augmentin in pediatric patients.
• The study recommends a maximum dose of 4000 mg of amoxicillin per day, which is consistent with other guidelines and recommendations.
• It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for each individual child, as the recommended dose may vary depending on the specific circumstances.

From the FDA Drug Label

Based on the amoxicillin component, amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium should be dosed as follows: Patients Aged 12 weeks (3 months) and Older: See dosing regimens provided in Table 1. Table 1: Dosing in Patients Aged 12 weeks (3 months) and Older INFECTIONDOSING REGIMEN Every 12 hoursEvery 12 hours 200 mg/5 mL or 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension a125 mg/5 mL or 250 mg/5 mL oral suspension a Otitis media b, sinusitis, lower respiratory tract infections, and more severe infections45 mg/kg/day every 12 hours40 mg/kg/day every 8 hours Less severe infections25 mg/kg/day every 12 hours20 mg/kg/day every 8 hours Patients Weighing 40 kg or More: Pediatric patients weighing 40 kg or more should be dosed according to adult recommendations

The maximum dose of Augmentin for pediatrics is not explicitly stated, but the dosing regimens are provided in Table 1. The dose is based on the amoxicillin component and the patient's weight. For patients aged 12 weeks and older, the dose is 45 mg/kg/day every 12 hours or 40 mg/kg/day every 8 hours for more severe infections, and 25 mg/kg/day every 12 hours or 20 mg/kg/day every 8 hours for less severe infections. For patients weighing 40 kg or more, the adult recommendations should be followed 2.

From the Research

Maximum Dose of Augmentin for Pediatrics

• The maximum dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) for pediatrics is not explicitly stated in the provided studies.
• However, study 3 mentions that higher doses of amoxicillin-clavulanate have demonstrated high rates of clinical success in treating recurrent and persistent acute otitis media.
• Study 4 compares the efficacy of a 10-day course of amoxicillin/clavulanate (90/6.4 mg/kg/day in 2 doses) with other antibiotic regimens in children with acute otitis media, but does not specify the maximum dose.
• Study 5 uses amoxicillin-clavulanic acid as a treatment for community-acquired pneumonia, but does not provide information on the maximum dose for pediatrics.

Dosage Information

• Study 4 uses a dose of 90/6.4 mg/kg/day in 2 doses for amoxicillin/clavulanate, which can be used as a reference for pediatric dosing.
• However, it is essential to consult a pediatrician or a medical professional to determine the appropriate dose of Augmentin for a specific pediatric patient, as it may vary depending on the individual's weight, age, and medical condition.

Limitations

• The provided studies do not directly address the question of the maximum dose of Augmentin for pediatrics.
• More research or consultation with medical professionals is necessary to determine the appropriate dosage for pediatric patients.