Comparing Clarithromycin and Amoxicillin for Young Children
I have a concern regarding my daughter, who is just 17 months old. She is maintaining a healthy weight and typically has no ongoing health issues, nor is she on any regular medication, as she consumes cow's milk. Recently, we visited the doctor due to a severe wet cough, and we feared she might have a sore throat since she was unwilling to eat or drink anything. During the examination, the doctor indicated that there seemed to be an infection in her throat, along with inflamed ears and significant congestion in her chest. Following this assessment, he prescribed clarithromycin. In the past, she has been given amoxicillin for a chest infection, which she tolerated without any issues. However, administering the clarithromycin has proven to be quite challenging. I’d like to understand how these two antibiotics differ. Additionally, I have another appointment with the doctor tomorrow since she has begun to struggle with choking on her food.
Answers (1)
3/26/2025, 7:10:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
When it comes to treating infections in children, both clarithromycin and amoxicillin are commonly prescribed antibiotics, but they differ in their uses and how they work.
Main Differences:
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Type of Antibiotic:
- Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic that is effective against a wide range of bacteria, especially in cases of ear infections, sinus infections, and respiratory infections.
- Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is often used for respiratory infections and can be effective against some bacteria that are resistant to penicillin.
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Taste and Administration:
- Many parents find that amoxicillin is easier for children to take, as it generally has a more pleasant taste compared to clarithromycin, which can be unpalatable for some kids.
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Side Effects:
- Both can cause side effects, but clarithromycin can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and diarrhea. These side effects might explain the difficulties you're having in administering it.
Given your daughter's situation, it’s understandable that you have concerns, particularly since she is having trouble eating and drinking.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on her symptoms, especially if she continues to choke while eating. This could be a sign of throat swelling or discomfort.
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Hydration: Ensure she stays hydrated. Offer her small sips of water or a favorite drink, as hydration is crucial, especially if she is experiencing difficulty swallowing.
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Communicate with Your Doctor: At your appointment tomorrow, express your difficulties with the clarithromycin and discuss the possibility of switching back to amoxicillin. Explain how she tolerated it well in the past. This will help your doctor understand her needs better.
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Watch for Warning Signs: If your daughter develops symptoms like difficulty breathing, high fever, or if choking worsens, seek immediate medical attention.
Your daughter's comfort and recovery are the most important aspects, and it's always okay to advocate for her needs with her healthcare team. Let me know if you have more questions or need further clarification!
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