Drug Shortages: Amoxicillin

There is a national amoxicillin shortage suspensions that is anticipated to last several months. See below for alternative therapies during the shortage.

• Preferentially prescribe amoxicillin tablets, capsules, or chew tabs for children able to take these formulations. These have NOT been impacted by the shortage. Attempt to round doses (+/- 10%) to 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg, 875 mg, or 1000 mg.
  • Products available:
    • Tablets: 500 mg, 875 mg
    • Capsules: 250 mg, 500 mg
    • Chew tabs: 250 mg
  • Tablets can be split/crushed to mix with any liquid or semisolid, like applesauce. This can be given orally or by tube.
    • Capsules can be opened and mixed with any liquid or semisolid, like applesauce. This can be given orally or by tube.
    • Chew tabs can be split.
• When amoxicillin cannot be used, consider the following alternative antibiotics:

*Additional alternatives for antibiotic allergies listed in the AAP Red Book Systems-Based Table

Additional Information:

• Drug, immunization, device shortages
• New resource provides alternatives to amoxicillin suspension during shortage (AAP News)
• Expert: Using antibiotics judiciously will help maintain supply during amoxicillin shortage, prevent resistance (AAP News)
• Systems-based Treatment Table (Red Book)
• FDA Drug Shortages (FDA)
• Drug Shortage Detail: Amoxicillin Oral Presentations (ASHP)