How much amoxiclav should be given to a rat? - briefly
The recommended dose of amoxicillin‑clavulanic acid for rats is 10–20 mg per kilogram of body weight, administered orally every 12 hours. Adjust within this range according to the animal’s condition and veterinary guidance.
How much amoxiclav should be given to a rat? - in detail
The recommended amoxicillin‑clavulanic acid dose for rats is expressed in milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Standard protocols use 30 mg kg⁻¹ of the amoxicillin component, combined with 5 mg kg⁻¹ of clavulanic acid, administered twice daily. The total dose therefore equals 60 mg kg⁻¹ of amoxicillin and 10 mg kg⁻¹ of clavulanic acid per day.
Calculation example
- Average adult rat weight: 250 g (0.25 kg)
- Amoxicillin dose: 30 mg kg⁻¹ × 0.25 kg = 7.5 mg per administration
- Clavulanic acid dose: 5 mg kg⁻¹ × 0.25 kg = 1.25 mg per administration
- Total per dose: 8.75 mg of the combined formulation, given every 12 h.
Formulation considerations
- Use a veterinary suspension or prepare a solution by dissolving a suitable amount of tablet in sterile water; ensure complete dissolution.
- Verify concentration with a calibrated syringe before dosing.
- Administer orally via gavage or subcutaneously; intraperitoneal injection is acceptable if absorption data support it.
Frequency and duration
- Twice‑daily dosing (approximately every 12 hours) maintains therapeutic plasma levels.
- Typical treatment courses last 5–7 days for uncomplicated infections; extend to 10–14 days for chronic or severe infections.
Safety margins
- Doses above 50 mg kg⁻¹ of amoxicillin may produce gastrointestinal disturbance or hepatic enzyme elevation.
- Monitor weight, behavior, and fecal consistency daily; adjust dose if adverse signs appear.
Special circumstances
- Neonatal or juvenile rats require a reduced dose of 20 mg kg⁻¹ amoxicillin with 3 mg kg⁻¹ clavulanic acid, administered twice daily.
- Renal impairment warrants a 25 % dose reduction and extended dosing interval (every 24 h).
Accurate dosing relies on precise weight measurement, correct preparation of the drug solution, and adherence to the 12‑hour interval schedule.