Expert: Karen Martin, APN, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - 7/3/2006

Question
Hello, I took two of my children to two different doctors today.  They both had strep throat.  My youngest is 3 and weighs 35 pounds the other is 8 and weighs 55 pounds.  The 3 year old was prescribed amoxicillin 400mg/5ml.  He is to take 2 tsp 2 times a day, so his dosage is 1600 mg per day for 10 days.  My 8 year old was prescribed amoxicillin 250mg/5ml.  She is to take 1 tsp 3 times a day, so her dosage is 750 mg per day for 10 days.  That seems like too much of a difference to me.  Could you please help me figure this out, the Dr. Office and pharmacy are both closed.  Thanks so much, Lorie

Answer
You have reason to be concerned Lorie; and might I add what a good mother you are to realize the difference in dosing for your kids!! It sounds like your 3 yr old. was "high dosed" on his amoxicillin which is necessary for ear infections, however, NOT strep throat. That dose won't hurt him, but it is not necessary. I would give him 1 tsp (400mg) twice/day. In order to make it convenient, you may give your daughter 1 1/2 tsp. twice daily. Most pediatricians I know only use the twice day dosing anymore. Being a mother, that three times day is just too hard. I hope this clears it up for you. Be sure they get new toothbrushes in 48hours to prevent reinfection....and have a Happy 4th!