What is the recommended dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) for acute sinusitis?

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Last updated: April 24, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

For adults with sinusitis, the typical dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) is 500-875 mg taken twice daily for 5-7 days, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. The dosage of Augmentin for sinusitis is based on the severity of the infection and the patient's medical history.

  • For uncomplicated acute bacterial sinusitis, the recommended dose is 500-875 mg taken twice daily for 5-7 days.
  • For more severe cases or in areas with high resistance rates, a higher dose of 875 mg/125 mg taken twice daily may be necessary. It's essential to note that the dosage may vary depending on the patient's age, weight, and medical history.
  • For children, the dosage is typically 45 mg/kg/day divided into two doses, with a maximum dose of 90 mg/kg/day for more severe cases 1. Augmentin is effective for sinusitis because it combines amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, which helps overcome bacterial resistance by inhibiting beta-lactamase enzymes that some bacteria produce.
  • Take Augmentin with food to reduce stomach upset, and complete the entire course even if you feel better before it's finished.
  • If you have liver or kidney problems, are pregnant, or have allergies to penicillin, inform your doctor as dosage adjustments may be needed. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and rash.
  • Contact your doctor if symptoms worsen or don't improve after 3 days of treatment. It's crucial to follow the recommended dosage and treatment duration to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications or antibiotic resistance.

From the Research

Dosage of Augmentin for Sinusitis

  • The dosage of Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) for sinusitis varies depending on the study, but common dosages include:
    • 625 mg every 8 hours for 10 days 2
    • 875 mg/125 mg every 12 hours for 10 days 3, 4
    • 875 mg/125 mg twice a day for 7 days 5
  • A study comparing high-dose amoxicillin plus clavulanate (875 mg/125 mg twice a day) to standard-dose amoxicillin plus clavulanate found no significant difference in symptom resolution at day 3 5
  • Another study found that a single 2-g dose of azithromycin extended release was more effective than 10 days of amoxicillin/clavulanate 875 mg/125 mg every 12 hours in resolving symptoms at day 5 3
  • A comparison of levofloxacin and amoxicillin-clavulanate for the treatment of acute sinusitis found that levofloxacin (500 mg orally once daily) was as effective and better tolerated than amoxicillin-clavulanate (500/125 mg orally 3 times daily) for 10 to 14 days 6
  • A study comparing the administration of amoxicillin and clavulanate every 12 hours to every 8 hours found that both regimens were equally effective and safe for the treatment of acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis 4

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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