Ampicillin for Bacterial Infections - Drug Information

Generic Name - Ampicillin

Category - Antibiotic, Antibacterial medication

Indications

Bacterial Infections
Ampicillin is indicated for the treatment of different types of bacterial infections such as tonsillitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, ear infections, urinary tract infections and the infection of skin, infection of the intestines. Ampicillin works by blocking the formation of bacterial cell wall rendering bacteria unable to multiply and spread.

Ampicillin Contraindications and Drug Interactions

Ampicillin is contraindicated in patients, who are hypersensitive to this drug, medications that belong to this class of drugs or had an allergic reaction to it in the past. Ampicillin is also contraindicated in infections caused by penicillinase-producing organisms.

There are a number of medication that interact with Amoxicillin. It is important to take the doctor's counsel if you are taking any of the following

Allopurinol
Atenolol
Chloroquine
Mefloquine
Oral contraceptives

Ampicillin Dosage

The following information just highlights the general average dosage of Ampicillin,
For Ear, Nose, Throat, Skin, Genital, and Urinary Tract Infections, the usual dosage is 500 milligrams, taken every 6 hours. For infections of the Lower Respiratory Tract, the usual dosage is 3.5 grams in a single oral dose along with 1 gram of probenecid.

Ampicillin Adverse Effects

Some of the most serious Ampicillin side Effects include redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, seizures (convulsions), skin rash, itching, stomach pain or cramps, swollen joints, severe or watery diarrhea and unusual bleeding or bruising.

This is not a complete list of all Side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Ampicillin.

Ampicillin and Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies to indicate the effect of Ampicillin in pregnant woman.

Ampicillin and Breastfeeding

Ampicillin passes into human milk and must be avoided while breast feeding.

Ampicillin and Pediatric

Because of incompletely developed renal functions in neonates and young infants, the elimination of ampicillin antibiotic may be delayed in pediatric patients.

Ampicillin and Geriatric

Ampicillin doesn't indicate any specific problems in older patients. However, elderly patients are more likely to have an age-related decrease in renal function, which may require an adjustment in dosage in patients receiving Ampicillin.

Note

The above information about Ampicillin serves as an information resource only and is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis and treatment. Always seek the counsel of your doctor, physician or pharmacist before starting any new treatment or making changes to existing therapy.