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Expert Q&A
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| By Alesia Hanson, RPh Registered Pharmacist | ||
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What type of medication is most commonly used in children for infections?
Oral antibiotics are probably the most commonly used medication in children. When prescribing for an ear infection, strep throat or skin infection, physicians often start with the penicillins. Amoxicillin and Augmentin® are the most common. They are available as capsule/tablet, chewable or suspensions. Amoxicillin is available in generic in most strengths. The suspension does not have to be refrigerated, but tastes better cold and can be given with or without food. Amoxicillin is good for 14 days once it is mixed. It can cause stomach upset and sometimes a rash. Augmentin® contains amoxicillin, but also has another ingredient that makes the amoxicillin work better. It is not available in generic. Augmentin® suspension must be refrigerated, according to the manufacturer. If it is left at room temperature for more than four hours, it may lose some of its potency. It is only good for 10 days once it is mixed. Augmentin® should be given with food because it usually causes stomach upset and diarrhea. An allergy to penicillin usually manifests as hives. If this occurs, the medication should be stopped and the physician contacted.
Note: This information is not meant to supersede physicians' instructions. If there are any questions on a prescription, contact the prescribing physician or a pharmacist.
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More Answers by this Expert
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