What is the recommended dose of oral penicillin prophylaxis for children with sickle cell disease based on age? | Rounds What is the recommended dose of oral penicillin prophylaxis for children with sickle cell disease based on age? | Rounds

What is the recommended dose of oral penicillin prophylaxis for children with sickle cell disease based on age?

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Oral Penicillin Prophylaxis Dosing by Age in Children With Sickle Cell Disease

Oral penicillin prophylaxis is recommended for prevention of invasive pneumococcal infection in children with HbSS. [1]

Age-Based Oral Dose

  • Age <3 years: Penicillin (125 mg) orally twice daily. [1]
  • Age ≥3 years: Penicillin (250 mg) orally twice daily. [1]

Duration of Prophylaxis

  • Prophylactic penicillin is recommended until age 5 years. [1]

Sources (1)

[1] Guideline 2014
Evidence-Based Management of Sickle Cell Disease: Expert Pa…
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
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