Description
Indications
Ampicillin is used for the treatment of various bacterial infections including meningitis, as well as infections affecting the respiratory, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and other systems. As a member of the penicillin class of antibiotics, it exerts its therapeutic effects by eradicating bacterial pathogens.
Antibiotics, such as ampicillin, are ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Inappropriate use of antibiotics, including taking them when they are not medically indicated, can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant infections in the future.
Uses and Dosage
Administer this medication orally as directed by your physician, typically 4 times per day at 6-hour intervals. Take ampicillin on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after consuming a meal, accompanied by a full glass of water. Unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.
The prescribed dosage of this antibiotic will depend on your individual medical condition and response to treatment. Take this medication at evenly spaced intervals for optimal efficacy. To ensure compliance, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.
Complete the entire prescribed course of treatment, even if symptoms resolve after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash
- itching
- hives
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- wheezing
- severe diarrhea
- stomach cramps (may occur up to 2 months or more after your treatment)
- a return of fever, cough, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
Caution
Prior to initiating treatment with ampicillin, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any allergies to this medication, penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, or any other substances present in the product. Inactive ingredients can also trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
Before commencing treatment with this medication, disclose your medical history, particularly if you have kidney disease or infectious mononucleosis.
The administration of ampicillin may reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines, including the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare professional of your use of ampicillin prior to undergoing any immunizations/vaccinations.
Older adults may be at an increased risk of experiencing side effects while using this medication.
During pregnancy, ampicillin should only be used if deemed necessary by your physician. The benefits and potential risks should be carefully evaluated and discussed with your healthcare provider.
Ampicillin is excreted in breast milk, consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Ampicillin is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
ampicillin capsule:
- 250mg
- 500mg
FAQ
Why is Ampicillin taken on an empty stomach?
Your body absorbs less ampicillin when you take it with food or right after a meal, which means the medication is less effective. It is best to
take this medication on an empty stomach, 1 hour before you eat, or 2 hours after meals.
Is Ampicillin a strong antibiotic?
Ampicillin can be effective against a variety of bacteria that cause certain infections. However, it is not prescribed as much as it used to be, because of the issue of resistance when used alone as ampicillin.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/ampicillin/what-is
- https://www.singlecare.com/blog/ampicillin-vs-amoxicillin/#:~:text=Is%20ampicillin%20a%20strong%20antibiotic,when%20used%20alone%20as%20ampicillin
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8613/ampicillin-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a685002.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20849-ampicillin-capsules
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/ampicillin.html