Ampicillin

Description
Ampicillin is a prescription antibiotic used to treat different types of bacterial infections. It is more commonly used as a step down after intravenous (IV) ampicillin to continue treatment of an ongoing infection.

The oral (capsule) version is indicated to treat:

• Gastrointestinal infections
• Genitourinary infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Ampicillin belongs to the penicillin family of antibacterial agents. It works by preventing bacteria from forming a bacterial cell wall. Without a cell wall, the bacteria’s natural protection breaks down, and they stop growing.

Directions
Take ampicillin exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. The dose will vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.

The normal ampicillin dose is three to four times per day.

Ampicillin is available in 250 mg and 500 mg capsules.

Ingredients
Ampicillin is a generic drug, and the active ingredient is ampicillin.

Interactions
Ampicillin has many potential drug-drug interactions. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about everything you are taking before starting this medication. Common interactions include:

• Allopurinol
• Aminoglycosides
• Atenolol
• BCG
• Chloroquine
• Cholera vaccine
• Dichlorphenamide
• Lactobacillus and Estriol
• Lanthanum
• Methotrexate
• Mycophenolate
• Probenecid
• Sodium picosulfate
• Tetracycline
• Typhoid vaccines
• Warfarin

Cautions
A rash is a common side effect of ampicillin and is commonly confused with a hypersensitivity reaction (allergic reaction). Your healthcare provider should carefully evaluate the rash if it develops.

Use caution if you have kidney problems.

Long-term use of ampicillin can cause the bacterial infection C.diff. Tell your doctor if you have prolonged severe diarrhea while using this medication.

Side Effects
The most common Ampicillin side effects may include:

• Agranulocytosis
• Anemia
• Diarrhea
• Dysgeusia
• Enterocolitis
• Eosinophilia
• Erythema multiforme
• Exfoliative dermatitis
• Fever
• Glossalgia
• Glossitis
• Hemolytic anemia
• Immune thrombocytopenia
• Increased liver enzymes
• Interstitial nephritis
• Leukopenia
• Melanoglossia
• Nausea
• Oral candidiasis
• Penicillin-induced brain disease
• Pseudomembranous colitis
• Seizure
• Serum sickness-like reaction
• Skin rash
• Sore mouth
• Stomatitis
• Stridor
• Urticaria
• Vomiting