What is the recommended dosage regimen for Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) double strength for an adult?

Augmentin Double Strength Dosing

For Augmentin "double strength" (875 mg amoxicillin/125 mg clavulanate), the standard order is one tablet by mouth twice daily (every 12 hours), preferably taken at the start of meals. 1

Standard Double Strength Regimen

• The 875 mg/125 mg formulation is specifically recommended for respiratory tract infections including acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, community-acquired pneumonia, and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis 2
• This dose is also appropriate for standard skin and soft tissue infections 2
• The FDA label confirms this as the dose for more severe infections and respiratory tract infections 1

Administration Guidelines

• Take at the start of a meal to enhance absorption of clavulanate and minimize gastrointestinal side effects 1
• The medication may be taken without regard to meals, but starting with food is preferred 1

Treatment Duration by Indication

• Respiratory infections: 5-7 days if afebrile for 48 hours and clinically stable 2
• Uncomplicated acute bacterial rhinosinusitis: 5-7 days 2
• Skin and soft tissue infections: Typically 7-10 days 2
• Animal or human bites: Standard course with 875/125 mg twice daily 2

Critical Dosing Warnings

• Never substitute two 250 mg/125 mg tablets for one 500 mg/125 mg tablet - this results in excessive clavulanate dosing (250 mg instead of 125 mg) and increased gastrointestinal side effects 2, 1
• The 875 mg/125 mg tablet is not interchangeable with other formulations without recalculating equivalent doses 1

When to Consider Higher Doses

• If treating drug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae with risk factors (recent antibiotic use within 4-6 weeks, immunodeficiency, frequent daycare exposure), consider 2000 mg/125 mg twice daily instead 3
• High-dose regimens are recommended for moderate disease severity or recent antibiotic exposure 3