Amoxicillin dose for children: indications and weight-based dosing
The short answer: 40–90 mg/kg/day divided 2–3 times daily, depending on indication
Amoxicillin is a first-line antibiotic in pediatrics for susceptible infections including otitis media, streptococcal pharyngitis, community-acquired pneumonia, sinusitis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Dosing depends on the infection:
- Standard dose: 40–45 mg/kg/day divided q12h or q8h
- High-dose (otitis media, resistant strep): 80–90 mg/kg/day divided q12h
- Maximum: 4 g/day (regardless of weight, for older children)
Is amoxicillin approved for children?
Yes — including neonates with adjusted dosing:
- Neonates 0–28 days: 20–30 mg/kg/day divided q12h (under neonatologist)
- Infants 1–24 months: 30–45 mg/kg/day divided q12h (standard) or 80–90 mg/kg/day q12h (high-dose)
- Children 2–12 years: same weight-based dosing as infants
- Adolescents 12+: adult dosing 500 mg q8h or 875 mg q12h
Dosing by indication
| Indication | Dose | Duration | |---|---|---| | Acute otitis media | 80–90 mg/kg/day divided q12h | 5–10 days | | Strep pharyngitis | 50 mg/kg once daily (max 1 g) | 10 days | | Community-acquired pneumonia | 45 mg/kg q12h (max 4 g/day) | 5–7 days | | Sinusitis | 45 mg/kg q12h | 7–10 days | | UTI (uncomplicated) | 25–50 mg/kg/day divided q8h | 5–10 days |
Formulations for children
- Suspension 125 mg/5 mL — for toddlers, usually q12h
- Suspension 250 mg/5 mL — most common, q12h or q8h
- Suspension 400 mg/5 mL — for higher doses (otitis)
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.