Ampicillin

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Brand Name :

Alfacillin 250mg Capsule , Ampy 500mg Injection ... show more

Approved Treatment Indication :

Human Bites, Bacterial Skin Diseases, Bacillary Dysentery, Bacterial Endocarditis, Infectious Pregnancy Complications, Bacterial Meningitis, Escherichia coli Infections, Haemophilus Infections, Actinomycosis, Staphylococcal Infections, Klebsiella Infections, Urinary Tract Infections, Respiratory Tract Infections, Gonorrhea, Soft Tissue Infections, Listeriosis, Salmonella Infections, Meningococcal Infections, Surgical Wound Infection, Pneumococcal Infections

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Summary

What conditions is Ampicillin used for?
Ampicillin is used to treat various bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, bacterial meningitis, endocarditis, and sepsis. It can also be used for some skin and soft tissue infections.
How does Ampicillin work in the body?
Ampicillin is a broad-spectrum penicillin antibiotic. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, which leads to the destruction of the bacteria.
What are the usual dosages and routes of administration for Ampicillin?
The usual adult oral dose of Ampicillin is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours. For children, the dose depends on their weight. It can also be administered intravenously or intramuscularly depending on the severity of the infection.
What are the most commonly observed adverse effects of Ampicillin?
Common side effects of Ampicillin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some people may also experience a rash or allergic reactions. More serious risks include severe allergic reactions, C. difficile infection, liver toxicity, blood disorders, and rare severe skin reactions.
What are important safety warnings and contraindications for Ampicillin?
Ampicillin should not be used by people allergic to penicillin or beta-lactam antibiotics. Those with mononucleosis should also avoid it as it can cause a rash. If you have liver or kidney issues, consult your doctor before taking Ampicillin.

Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

Essential Medicine

YES

Teratogenicity

Unlisted

Pharmaceutical Class

Penicillin-class Antibacterial

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Ampicillin

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Summary

What conditions is Ampicillin used for?
Ampicillin is used to treat various bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, bacterial meningitis, endocarditis, and sepsis. It can also be used for some skin and soft tissue infections.
How does Ampicillin work in the body?
Ampicillin is a broad-spectrum penicillin antibiotic. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, which leads to the destruction of the bacteria.
What are the usual dosages and routes of administration for Ampicillin?
The usual adult oral dose of Ampicillin is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours. For children, the dose depends on their weight. It can also be administered intravenously or intramuscularly depending on the severity of the infection.
What are the most commonly observed adverse effects of Ampicillin?
Common side effects of Ampicillin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some people may also experience a rash or allergic reactions. More serious risks include severe allergic reactions, C. difficile infection, liver toxicity, blood disorders, and rare severe skin reactions.
What are important safety warnings and contraindications for Ampicillin?
Ampicillin should not be used by people allergic to penicillin or beta-lactam antibiotics. Those with mononucleosis should also avoid it as it can cause a rash. If you have liver or kidney issues, consult your doctor before taking Ampicillin.

Indications and Purpose

What is Ampicillin used for?

Ampicillin is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, bacterial meningitis, endocarditis, and sepsis. It is also used in some cases of skin and soft tissue infections.

How does Ampicillin work?

You’ll know Ampicillin is working if your symptoms (e.g., fever, pain, swelling) improve within 1–3 days. If there’s no improvement or symptoms worsen, contact your doctor. Always finish the full course, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection is fully treated.

Is Ampicillin effective?

Ampicillin is effective against many bacterial infections if taken as prescribed. However, it is ineffective against viral infections (e.g., colds, flu).

How does one know if Ampicillin is working?

Improvement in symptoms such as reduced fever, pain, or swelling indicates the medication is working. If symptoms persist or worsen after a few days, contact your doctor

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of Ampicillin?

The usual adult oral dose is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours (four times daily). For children, the dose depends on their weight. Intravenous or intramuscular doses may vary based on the severity of the infection.

How do I take Ampicillin?

Take Ampicillin orally on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) with a full glass of water.
Do not chew or crush the capsules unless instructed.
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

For how long do I take Ampicillin?

The duration of treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. Complete the entire prescribed course, even if you start feeling better, to prevent the recurrence of infection or antibiotic resistance.

How long does it take for Ampicillin to start working?

Ampicillin usually starts working within 1–2 days, but noticeable symptom relief may take longer, depending on the infection.

How should I store Ampicillin?

Store capsules at room temperature (20–25°C/68–77°F).
Refrigerate liquid forms and discard after the expiration date.

Warnings and Precautions

Who should avoid taking Ampicillin?

People allergic to penicillin or beta-lactam antibiotics.
Those with mononucleosis (can cause a rash).
Consult your doctor if you have liver or kidney issues.

Can I take Ampicillin with other prescription drugs?

Some drugs (e.g., allopurinol, methotrexate, oral contraceptives, and probenecid) may interact with Ampicillin.
Always inform your doctor about other medications you're taking.

Can I take Ampicillin with vitamins or supplements?

Yes, but avoid taking it with mineral supplements (e.g., calcium, magnesium, iron) as they may reduce absorption. Take them at least 2 hours apart.

Can Ampicillin be taken safely while pregnant?

Yes, Ampicillin is generally considered safe during pregnancy but should only be used when prescribed by a doctor.

Can Ampicillin be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Yes, but small amounts pass into breast milk and may cause mild side effects (e.g., diarrhea or rash) in the baby.

Is Ampicillin safe for the elderly?

Yes, but elderly patients should be monitored for kidney function and potential side effects.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Ampicillin?

Yes, unless the infection or side effects (e.g., fatigue, dizziness) make exercise difficult. Always listen to your body.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Ampicillin?

Alcohol does not directly interact with Ampicillin, but it may worsen side effects like nausea or delay recovery.