Neonatal Drug Therapy Manual

Amoxicillin

Disclaimer: Official controlled document is the CHEO and Ottawa Hospital online copy. It is the responsibility of user to ensure that any paper copy version is the same as the online version before use.

Updated March 5, 2024 - 2:31pm

Alternate Name(s): 
Amoxil
Classification: 
Semi-synthetic penicillin antibiotic
Original Date: 
June 1996
Revised Date: 
November 2011
Indications: 
  • Infections due to Gram (+) and Gram (-) aerobic cocci
  • Infections due to some Gram (+) aerobic and anaerobic bacilli
  • Prophylaxis of urinary tract infections.
Administration: 
  • PO
Dosage: 
  • Neonates: 20 - 30 mg/kg/day divided Q12H
  • Infants: (corrected GA > 42 weeks and PNA > 4 weeks): 50 mg/kg/day divided Q8H
  • UTI prophylaxis (hydronephrosis, vesicoureteral reflux):
    • 10 - 15 mg/kg/day once daily
      • Due to resistance, amoxicillin should not be used for prophylaxis in infants greater than 2 months of age

Dosage adjustment required in renal impairment.  Refer to available references or clinical pharmacist for dosage adjustment.

Side Effects: 
  • Dermatologic: rash
  • GI: diarrhea
  • Hematologic anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia
Parameters to Monitor: 
  • With prolonged therapy monitor renal, hepatic and hematologic functions periodically
Reconstitution and Stability: 

N/A

Compatibility: 

N/A

References: 

Taketomo CK, Hodding JH, Kraus DM. Pediatric Dosage Handbook 17th Edition. Hudson: Lexi-Comp Inc.; 2010

Lau E. (Editor). Drug Handbook and Formulary - The Hospital for Sick Children.  Toronto: 2010 - 2011

The information contained on this website is provided for informational purposes only, as a guide to assist physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers in deciding on the appropriate care required for a particular patient. At all times, physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers must exercise their independent clinical judgment, based on their knowledge, training and experience, taking into account the specific facts and circumstances of each patient, when deciding on the appropriate course of investigation and/or treatment to recommend in a particular clinical situation.

CHEO has made every effort to ensure that the information contained on this website is as current and accurate as possible. However, changes can occur due to ongoing research and the constant influx of new information. Where possible, hospitals and healthcare practitioners should verify the information before acting on it.

Reliance on any information in this website is at the user's own risk. CHEO is not responsible or liable for any harm, loss or other consequences from the use or misuse of the information on this website.