Question 1

What is Augmentin used for in children?

Accepted Answer

Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) is used for bacterial infections caused by *beta-lactamase-producing organisms*, including *otitis media, sinusitis, animal bites, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections*, and community-acquired pneumonia that has not responded to plain amoxicillin.

Question 2

Why does Augmentin cause more diarrhoea than amoxicillin?

Accepted Answer

**Clavulanic acid** is responsible for most of Augmentin's gastrointestinal side effects. It disrupts the intestinal flora and directly irritates the gut mucosa. Keeping the daily clavulanate dose below **10 mg/kg/day** significantly reduces, but does not eliminate, this risk.

Question 3

What is the difference between 4:1 and 7:1 Augmentin formulations?

Accepted Answer

The ratio refers to the *amoxicillin:clavulanate ratio* per 5 mL. A **4:1 formulation** (e.g., 250/62.5) is suited to TID dosing. A **7:1 formulation** (e.g., 400/57) is better for BID dosing, as it delivers the higher amoxicillin dose with a proportionally lower clavulanate load per dose.

Question 4

How long should a course of Augmentin last?

Accepted Answer

Standard courses are **5–10 days** depending on the indication. *Otitis media* is typically 5–7 days; *sinusitis* 7–10 days; *animal bites* 5 days. Follow local guidelines for indication-specific duration recommendations.

Question 5

Can Augmentin be given to penicillin-allergic children?

Accepted Answer

**No.** Augmentin contains amoxicillin, a penicillin. It is contraindicated in children with a documented *immediate hypersensitivity reaction* to any penicillin. Additionally, a history of *cholestatic jaundice* associated with previous Augmentin use is an absolute contraindication to re-exposure.

Augmentin Pediatric
Calculator

Important Notice Before Use

Augmentin Pediatric
Calculator

Important Notice Before Use