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Augmentin Indications & Clinical Uses

Evidence-based guide for pediatric prescribing

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.

Primary FDA-Approved Indications

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.

Recurrent or Treatment-Resistant Otitis Media

FDA Approved
Infants ≥6 months and childrenLevel A (Multiple RCTs)

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

Efficacy Data

Success rate: 85-95%
Time to improvement: 48-72 hours

Evidence Sources

FDA Approved Labeling for Augmentin (2024)
Pediatric Recurrent or Treatment-Resistant Otitis Media Treatment Guidelines (2023)

Acute Bacterial Sinusitis

FDA Approved
Toddlers and older childrenLevel A (Multiple RCTs)First-line

Preferred in children with moderate to severe symptoms or suspected beta-lactamase–producing organisms; Augmentin is first-line in guidelines for pediatric bacterial sinusitis

Efficacy Data

Success rate: 85-95%
Time to improvement: 48-72 hours

Evidence Sources

FDA Approved Labeling for Augmentin (2024)
Pediatric Acute Bacterial Sinusitis Treatment Guidelines (2023)

Community-Acquired Pneumonia (Non-Atypical)

FDA Approved
Infants >3 months and school-aged childrenLevel A (Multiple RCTs)

Useful when typical pathogens like *H. influenzae* or beta-lactamase–producing strains are suspected or confirmed, especially in children with recent antibiotic exposure

Efficacy Data

Success rate: 85-95%
Time to improvement: 48-72 hours

Evidence Sources

FDA Approved Labeling for Augmentin (2024)
Pediatric Community-Acquired Pneumonia (Non-Atypical) Treatment Guidelines (2023)

Secondary Clinical Uses

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (e.g., Impetigo, Cellulitis)

Secondary Use
Children of all ages as clinically indicatedLevel B (Single RCT or large non-randomized)First-line

Effective against common skin pathogens including *Staphylococcus aureus* (non-MRSA) and *Streptococcus pyogenes*; often chosen for bite wounds due to polymicrobial coverage

Efficacy Data

Success rate: 85-95%
Time to improvement: 48-72 hours

Evidence Sources

FDA Approved Labeling for Augmentin (2024)
Pediatric Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (e.g., Impetigo, Cellulitis) Treatment Guidelines (2023)

Human or Animal Bite Wounds

Secondary Use
Children of all ages as indicatedLevel B (Single RCT or large non-randomized)First-line

Recommended for bite-related infections due to its activity against anaerobes and other mixed flora, including *Pasteurella* species

Efficacy Data

Success rate: 85-95%
Time to improvement: 48-72 hours

Evidence Sources

FDA Approved Labeling for Augmentin (2024)
Pediatric Human or Animal Bite Wounds Treatment Guidelines (2023)

Urinary Tract Infections (Selected Cases)

Secondary Use
Toilet-trained children and adolescentsLevel B (Single RCT or large non-randomized)

Used when oral treatment is indicated and local resistance patterns permit; active against many strains of *E. coli* and other uropathogens producing beta-lactamase

Efficacy Data

Success rate: 85-95%
Time to improvement: 48-72 hours

Evidence Sources

FDA Approved Labeling for Augmentin (2024)
Pediatric Urinary Tract Infections (Selected Cases) Treatment Guidelines (2023)

Clinical Decision Support

Quick Selection Guide

Symptom Cluster 1

Symptoms:

  • Primary symptoms
  • Associated findings

Likely Diagnosis:

Recurrent or Treatment-Resistant Otitis Media

Action:

Initiate Augmentin therapy

Symptom Cluster 2

Symptoms:

  • Primary symptoms
  • Associated findings

Likely Diagnosis:

Acute Bacterial Sinusitis

Action:

Initiate Augmentin therapy

Symptom Cluster 3

Symptoms:

  • Primary symptoms
  • Associated findings

Likely Diagnosis:

Community-Acquired Pneumonia (Non-Atypical)

Action:

Initiate Augmentin therapy

Red Flags & Warnings

Allergic reaction symptoms

Stop medication and seek care

Immediate

No improvement after 72 hours

Re-evaluate diagnosis

Soon

Clinical Pearls

  • •Augmentin dosing should be weight-based
  • •Complete full course of treatment
  • •Culture when possible before starting

Alternative Medication Options

Amoxicillin-Clavulanate

Beta-lactam antibiotic

Treatment failure or resistance

Advantages
  • Broader spectrum
Disadvantages
  • More GI effects
Cost: More expensive

Parent Communication Guide

When This Medicine Helps

Understanding the Condition

Augmentin treats Recurrent or Treatment-Resistant Otitis Media by fighting bacteria.

Why We Choose This Medicine

We choose Augmentin because it's effective and well-tolerated in children.

What to Expect

Most children improve within 48-72 hours.

Monitoring Your Child

Signs the Medicine is Working:

  • Symptoms improve
  • Child feels better
  • Normal activities resume

When to Contact Your Doctor:

No improvement after: 72 hours

Watch for these warning signs:

  • High fever
  • Severe symptoms
  • New symptoms

Common Parent Questions

Can I give with food?

Check specific instructions for your medication.

💡 Ask your pharmacist

Never Use Augmentin For

Viral infections

Antibiotics only work against bacteria

Alternatives: Supportive care

Known allergy to Augmentin

Risk of allergic reaction

Alternatives: Alternative medication

Last updated: 7/21/2025•Evidence quality: 8/10
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