How to Calculate Amoxicillin Pediatric Dosage

The calculator determines the dose based on weight, indication, route, strength, and optional dosage requirement:

Dose per Administration (mg):

Daily Dose (mg):

Dose per Administration (mL):

Dosing Rules:

• General (PO): 15-30 mg/kg/dose, 3x/day, max 1 g/day
• General (IV): 30-60 mg/kg/dose, 3x/day, max 4 g/day
• Strep A (PO): 30 mg/kg/dose, 1x/day, max 1 g/day
• Endocarditis (PO/IV): 50 mg/kg/dose, single dose, max 2 g

Using the Amoxicillin Pediatric Dosage Calculator

This tool calculates pediatric amoxicillin doses based on weight, indication, administration route, solution strength, and an optional custom dosage requirement. It provides dosing ranges and, if specified, a custom dose, helping caregivers and clinicians estimate appropriate amounts.

Enter the child’s weight (kg or lb), select the indication, route, and solution strength. Optionally, input a dosage requirement (mg/kg/dose) for a personalized calculation. Results include dose ranges in milligrams and milliliters, along with dosing frequency and maximum dose warnings.

Example: 25 kg, General Dosing (IV), 125 mg/5 mL, Dosage Req 25 mg/kg/dose:

3 times per day/every 8 hours:
In milligrams: 750-1500 mg
In milliliters: 30-60 mL
Dosing rules: 30-60 mg/kg/dose
❗ You may exceed a maximum dose of 4 grams per day.

3 times per day/every 8 hours (Your Dose):
In milligrams: 625 mg
In milliliters: 25 mL
Dosing rules: 25 mg/kg/dose
            

Always consult a healthcare provider to verify dosing and ensure safe administration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the typical dosage range for amoxicillin in children?

Dosage varies by indication. For general infections, it’s typically 15-30 mg/kg/dose orally (3x/day) or 30-60 mg/kg/dose IV (3x/day). Strep A uses 30 mg/kg once daily, and endocarditis prophylaxis requires 50 mg/kg as a single dose.

2. How do I choose the right solution strength?

Strengths (e.g., 125 mg/5 mL, 400 mg/5 mL) depend on availability and the child’s ability to swallow or the IV preparation method. Higher strengths reduce volume, which may be easier for smaller children or precise IV dosing.

3. Why does the calculator warn about exceeding maximum doses?

The tool flags when the calculated daily dose exceeds safe limits (e.g., 1 g/day for oral general dosing, 4 g/day for IV). This ensures awareness of potential overdose risks, requiring medical review.

4. Can I use this calculator for infants under 1 year?

Yes, but dosing for infants often requires adjustment based on age, weight, and renal function. The WHO guidelines suggest lower doses for neonates (e.g., 25-50 mg/kg/day total), so consult a pediatrician.

5. What if my child’s weight is outside the typical range?

The calculator works for any weight, but extremely low or high weights may need special consideration. For obese children, ideal body weight might be used instead of actual weight—check with a doctor.

6. How accurate are these calculations?

The calculations align with WHO and AAPD guidelines but are estimates. Factors like kidney function, severity of infection, or allergies aren’t considered, making professional consultation essential.

References

The dosing rules and ranges in this calculator are informed by reputable sources:

• World Health Organization. (2019). "Paediatric Dosing of Antibiotics." Available here. This document provides evidence-based dosing recommendations for amoxicillin in children, including weight-based ranges.
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). "Common Pediatric Medications." Available here. This resource outlines standard doses for amoxicillin, including prophylaxis for endocarditis.

These references ensure the calculator reflects current pediatric pharmacology standards, though local guidelines may vary.