What is the recommended dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) for an adult patient with a single tender lymphadenitis located below the ear and normal renal function?

Augmentin Dosing for Single Tender Lymphadenitis Below Ear

For an adult with normal renal function presenting with single tender lymphadenitis below the ear, prescribe Augmentin 875 mg/125 mg twice daily for 7-10 days. 1, 2

Recommended Dosing Regimen

Standard adult dosing for this infection is 875 mg amoxicillin/125 mg clavulanate twice daily, taken at the start of meals to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. 2

Alternative dosing options include:

• 500 mg/125 mg three times daily (every 8 hours) 2
• The twice-daily regimen is preferred as it improves compliance and reduces diarrhea compared to three-times-daily dosing 2

Treatment Duration and Monitoring

Treat for 7-10 days as recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America for uncomplicated bacterial lymphadenitis. 1

Key monitoring points:

• Assess clinical response within 3-5 days of initiating therapy 1
• If improving, continue the same regimen until completion 1
• If no improvement or worsening occurs after 3-5 days, switch to an alternative agent with broader coverage 1
• The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology suggests continuing antibiotics for 7 days after clinical improvement to ensure complete eradication 1

Administration Guidelines

Take Augmentin at the start of a meal to enhance clavulanate absorption and minimize gastrointestinal intolerance. 2

Clinical Context

Lymphadenitis below the ear (likely cervical lymphadenopathy) typically results from bacterial infection, with common pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. 3 Augmentin provides coverage for beta-lactamase-producing organisms that may be involved in head and neck infections. 3

Important Caveats

• Do not substitute two 250 mg/125 mg tablets for one 500 mg/125 mg tablet, as they contain different amounts of clavulanic acid 2
• The 875 mg/125 mg formulation is specifically designed for more severe infections and respiratory tract involvement 2
• If the patient has penicillin allergy, alternative antibiotics must be selected instead 4