Loading Calculator...
Please wait a moment
Please wait a moment
Reference calculator for amoxicillin/clavulanate dosing in children
| Formulation | Amox/Clav per 5mL | Dosing Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ES-600 | 600/42.9 mg | BID only | High-dose therapy, resistant infections |
| 400/57 | 400/57 mg | BID | Standard dosing, older children |
| 200/28.5 | 200/28.5 mg | BID or TID | Standard dosing, younger children |
| 125/31.25 | 125/31.25 mg | TID | Lower dose needs, smaller children |
The clavulanate component differs between formulations. Using the wrong formulation at the wrong frequency can result in too much clavulanate (causing diarrhea) or too little (reducing effectiveness). Always use the prescribed formulation at the prescribed frequency.
Augmentin = Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid
Some bacteria produce an enzyme called beta-lactamase that destroys amoxicillin. Clavulanic acid blocks this enzyme, making the antibiotic effective against resistant bacteria.
Tip: Give with food and consider probiotics 2 hours apart
A flat, non-itchy rash can occur in 5-10% of children taking amoxicillin/Augmentin. This is usually NOT a true allergy but a viral-antibiotic interaction (especially with mono/EBV). However, if the rash is raised, itchy, or comes with breathing difficulty, stop and call your doctor.
The clavulanic acid component is what causes increased GI side effects. It affects gut bacteria more than amoxicillin alone. Taking Augmentin with food significantly reduces stomach upset. Probiotics given 2 hours apart from the antibiotic may help reduce diarrhea.
ES-600 is the 'Extended Spectrum' high-dose formulation containing 600mg amoxicillin per 5mL (vs 400mg in regular). It's specifically designed for twice-daily high-dose therapy (90 mg/kg/day) for resistant ear and sinus infections. It must ONLY be given twice daily - using it three times daily would overdose the clavulanate.
No! Different formulations have different ratios of amoxicillin to clavulanate and are designed for different dosing frequencies. Swapping formulations can result in too much clavulanate (more diarrhea, less effective) or not enough. Always use exactly what was prescribed.
Possibly. If the infection involves beta-lactamase producing bacteria, adding clavulanic acid (Augmentin) can overcome the resistance. This is common with recurrent ear infections. However, some bacteria are resistant to both, so if Augmentin doesn't work, a different antibiotic class may be needed.
Reconstituted (mixed) Augmentin suspension should be refrigerated and used within 10 days. Shake well before each dose. Don't freeze. Refrigeration also helps improve the taste and may reduce stomach upset.
If your child has tolerated amoxicillin, they should tolerate Augmentin (which contains amoxicillin). The added clavulanic acid rarely causes allergic reactions. However, if they develop a new rash or reaction, consult your doctor - some children can develop new allergies with subsequent exposures.
Animal and human bites commonly introduce bacteria like Pasteurella and Eikenella that produce beta-lactamase. Augmentin covers these organisms better than plain amoxicillin. For cat bites especially, Augmentin is highly effective against Pasteurella multocida, the most common cause of bite wound infections.