Calculate pediatric dosages for Augmentin in seconds with our Augmentin pediatric dosing calculator. Input the details, press Calculate Dosage, and get precise Augmentin prescriptions for every child!
Augmentin is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. This duo works together to treat many different infections caused by bacteria, such as sinusitis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. The calculator provides specific dosing options, ensuring the effectiveness and safety of pediatric treatment.
In pediatrics, Augmentin is frequently prescribed for infections such as recurrent or treatment-resistant otitis media, bacterial sinusitis, and pneumonia where beta-lactamase–producing organisms may be present. It is also useful in treating skin and soft tissue infections and some urinary tract infections. The drug is available in various child-friendly formulations, including flavored suspensions, which improve ease of use and adherence for younger patients. Because the clavulanate component can cause gastrointestinal upset, particularly diarrhea, clinicians often select Augmentin formulations with lower clavulanate concentrations (such as the ES-600 version) to reduce this side effect while maintaining efficacy. In summary, Augmentin is a go-to second-line antibiotic in pediatrics when broader bacterial coverage is needed or when first-line therapy is insufficient.
Augmentin is a trusted antibiotic that helps children fight bacterial infections. Understanding when and how it's used ensures your child receives the right treatment at the right time for their infection.
Augmentin is widely used in pediatric practice for resistant infections, sinusitis, pneumonia, skin infections. It is FDA-approved for use in infants 3 months and older with typical dosing of 45-90 mg/kg/day of amoxicillin component divided twice daily. Clinical evidence supports its safety and efficacy when used as directed.
| Condition | Age Range | First Line? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recurrent or Treatment-Resistant Otitis Media | Infants ≥6 months and children | No | Used as a second-line option in children who have not improved after 48–72 hours of amoxicillin or have received amoxicillin in the past 30 days |
| Acute Bacterial Sinusitis | Toddlers and older children | Yes | Preferred in children with moderate to severe symptoms or suspected beta-lactamase–producing organisms; Augmentin is first-line in guidelines for pediatric bacterial sinusitis |
| Community-Acquired Pneumonia (Non-Atypical) | Infants >3 months and school-aged children | No | Useful when typical pathogens like *H. influenzae* or beta-lactamase–producing strains are suspected or confirmed, especially in children with recent antibiotic exposure |
| Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (e.g., Impetigo, Cellulitis) | Children of all ages as clinically indicated | Yes | Effective against common skin pathogens including *Staphylococcus aureus* (non-MRSA) and *Streptococcus pyogenes*; often chosen for bite wounds due to polymicrobial coverage |
| Human or Animal Bite Wounds | Children of all ages as indicated | Yes | Recommended for bite-related infections due to its activity against anaerobes and other mixed flora, including *Pasteurella* species |
| Urinary Tract Infections (Selected Cases) | Toilet-trained children and adolescents | No | Used when oral treatment is indicated and local resistance patterns permit; active against many strains of *E. coli* and other uropathogens producing beta-lactamase |
FDA-approved primary uses with Level A evidence
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Quick selection guides and diagnostic pearls
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Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) is associated with higher gastrointestinal side effect rates compared to amoxicillin alone, primarily due to the clavulanic acid component. Diarrhea occurs in approximately 19.8% of patients receiving amoxicillin/clavulanate versus 8.1% with amoxicillin alone. Augmentin is currently the most common cause of drug-induced liver disease in the United States and Europe, though hepatotoxicity remains rare in pediatric populations. Most side effects are mild and self-limiting.
Augmentin side effects are primarily gastrointestinal (diarrhea 9-19.8%), with hepatotoxicity being the most serious concern despite its rarity. Pediatric-specific issues include DIES (protracted vomiting), tooth discoloration, and the importance of weight-appropriate formulations. The clavulanic acid component is responsible for both increased efficacy and higher side effect rates compared to amoxicillin alone.
Diarrhea and Loose Stools
9% with immediate-release formulations; 19.8% for amoxicillin/clavulanate vs 8.1% for amoxicillin alone • Mild to Moderate (Grade 1-2)
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea: 3%; Vomiting: 1% in clinical trials • Mild (Grade 1)
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Hepatotoxicity and Cholestatic Injury
Rare but documented; most common cause of drug-induced liver disease in US/Europe • Moderate to Severe (Grade 2-4)
Skin Rashes and Urticaria
3% in clinical trials • Mild to Moderate (Grade 1-2)
Diaper Rash
Common in young children taking Augmentin • Mild (Grade 1)
Tooth Discoloration
Rare; primarily affects pediatric patients during tooth development • Mild (Grade 1, cosmetic)
Oral Thrush (Candidiasis)
Common with broad-spectrum antibiotics • Mild to Moderate (Grade 1-2)
Organized by affected organ systems
How to discuss side effects with families
Management protocols and monitoring
Common concerns and practical guidance
Augmentin requires more careful administration than regular amoxicillin due to the clavulanate component. Taking it properly with food and following storage requirements ensures your child gets the full benefit while minimizing side effects like stomach upset and diarrhea.
Practical administration tips: Augmentin should be taken with food or milk to reduce the likelihood of stomach upset – this is especially important because the clavulanate component is known to increase gastrointestinal side effects, particularly diarrhea. Many children tolerate the suspension well, and the fruity flavors (e.g., strawberry or bubblegum) can help increase cooperation. If taste is a concern, mixing the dose with a small amount of soft food or juice may help, but it should be taken immediately after mixing. An accurate dosing device such as an oral syringe is essential – caregivers should avoid using household spoons, which can lead to dosing errors.
Common caregiver challenges: Diarrhea is more common with Augmentin than with amoxicillin alone. To help manage this, providers may recommend probiotic supplementation during treatment (with provider approval) and ensuring adequate fluid intake. The ES formulation (Augmentin ES-600) is preferred for minimizing diarrhea due to its lower clavulanate ratio per amoxicillin. If a dose is vomited shortly after ingestion (especially within 15 minutes), a repeat dose may be necessary – caregivers should contact their provider for guidance. As always, the full course of antibiotics should be completed unless otherwise directed. Liquid formulations are often stored in the refrigerator to preserve flavor and stability (depending on the specific preparation); families should confirm storage instructions with the pharmacy and keep the bottle out of reach of young children.
Emergency contact: If you have any concerns about dosing or your child's response to the medication, contact your pediatrician immediately.
Remember, you're doing a wonderful job caring for your little one. Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.
Different formulations and concentrations
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Safe preparation and measuring techniques
Tailored approaches for different ages
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Storage guidelines and safety tips
Expert pearls and evidence-based tips
Augmentin combines amoxicillin (which kills bacteria by breaking down their cell walls) with clavulanate (which protects amoxicillin from bacterial enzymes that try to destroy it). This partnership makes the medication effective against resistant bacteria that would normally survive treatment with amoxicillin alone.
Augmentin's dual mechanism combines amoxicillin's bacterial cell wall inhibition with clavulanate's beta-lactamase protection. This synergistic approach overcomes bacterial resistance mechanisms, extending coverage to beta-lactamase-producing organisms while maintaining amoxicillin's excellent safety profile and pediatric tolerability.
Simple explanations and helpful analogies
Receptors, enzymes, and cellular targets
Absorption, metabolism, and elimination
Age-related differences and special populations
These clinical pearls come from years of real-world experience with Augmentin in pediatric practice. They focus on practical strategies that make treatment more successful and help families navigate the unique challenges of this important antibiotic combination.
Clinical pearls for Augmentin emphasize the critical food requirement, advantages of ES-600 formulation, managing GI side effects, proper storage, taste strategies, and distinguishing viral rashes from true allergies. These insights help optimize treatment success and minimize complications.
Core insights every provider should know
Recent updates that change how we practice
Organized by dosing, administration, and safety
How to explain treatments to families
Real-world cases with evidence-based approaches
Key numbers, algorithms, and decision tools
Understanding your child's medication is important. We've created comprehensive guides to help you safely administer Augmentin and monitor your child's response to treatment.
Augmentin includes clavulanate, which helps amoxicillin work against bacteria that produce enzymes called beta-lactamases. These enzymes make certain bacteria resistant to amoxicillin alone. So if a child has an infection that’s not improving with amoxicillin or has recently taken antibiotics, Augmentin may be used to provide broader coverage and improve effectiveness.
Children typically begin to improve within 48 to 72 hours after starting Augmentin. Fever, pain, and other symptoms should gradually lessen. If there’s no improvement by day three, or if symptoms worsen, contact your pediatrician. The infection may require a different treatment. Always finish the full course of antibiotics unless advised otherwise by your provider.
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Augmentin, especially in younger children. Make sure your child stays hydrated, and talk to your pediatrician about using probiotics during treatment. If the diarrhea is severe, has blood or mucus, or lasts more than a couple of days, stop the medication and contact the provider – this could indicate a more serious issue like C. difficile infection.
Yes, it is recommended to give Augmentin with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset and diarrhea. This is especially important for young children, who may be more sensitive to the gastrointestinal side effects caused by the clavulanate component. Giving it with a snack or meal can help improve tolerance.
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as possible unless it’s close to the time for the next dose – in that case, skip the missed one and continue on schedule. Do not double up on doses. If the child spits out or vomits the dose within 15 minutes, you may need to repeat it. If you’re unsure, call your pediatrician or pharmacist for advice.
It depends on the type of rash. A flat, non-itchy rash might not indicate a true allergy, especially if it occurred several days into treatment and the child was otherwise well. However, hives (itchy, raised welts) or symptoms like swelling or trouble breathing are signs of a true allergic reaction. Always inform your provider about any past reaction. They will help determine if it’s safe to use Augmentin again or if alternatives are needed.