Ampicillin(Acillin)

Ampicillin(Acillin) belongs to a class of antibiotics called penicillins that are used for treating bacterial infections.Ampicillin stops bacteria from multiplying by preventing bacteria from forming the walls that surround them. The walls are necessary to protect bacteria from their environment and to keep the contents of the bacterial cell together.Bacteria cannot survive without a cell wall.

Synonyms: Ampicilin, Apmax

Ampicillin Description
Ampicillin(Acillin) belongs to a class of antibiotics called penicillins that are used for treating bacterial infections.Ampicillin stops bacteria from multiplying by preventing bacteria from forming the walls that surround them. The walls are necessary to protect bacteria from their environment and to keep the contents of the bacterial cell together.Bacteria cannot survive without a cell wall.

How to use Ampicillin
Take this medication once daily in the morning or as directed by your doctor.The usual oral dose range for most infections is 250 to 500 mg 4 times daily for 7-14 days.Dosage is based on your condition and response and may be changed by your doctor for various reasons. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Do not crush or chew the tablet because it will destroy the long action and may increase the possibility of side effects. If needed, the tablets may be broken but only at the "score" or line for easy breaking. This medication works best if a constant level is maintained in the body. Do this by taking your dose(s) at the same time each day.

Ampicillin Side Effects
Common side effects of ampicillin include nausea,vomiting,loss of appetite,diarrhea,abdominal pain,rash, itching,headache,confusion and dizziness.Patients with a history of allergic reactions to other penicillins should not receive ampicillin.

Ampicillin Interactions
Probenecid(Benemid) causes an increase in the amount of ampicillin in the body.Use of ampicillin with allopurinol(Zyloprim) can increase the incidence of drug-related skin rash.

Ampicillin Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.

Ampicillin Notes
Do not change your diet without first checking with your doctor. Large amounts of char-broiled foods or a high protein, low carbohydrate diet can affect the action of this medication. Do not change brands of this medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Not all brands are identical in action. Lab/blood tests may be done to monitor your therapy.

Ampicillin Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double-up the dose to catch up.

Ampicillin Uses
Ampicillin is used for treating infections of the middle ear, sinuses, stomach and intestines, bladder, and kidney caused by susceptible bacteria. It also is used for treating uncomplicated gonorrhea, meningitis, endocarditis and other serious infections.

Ampicillin Other Uses
Consult your doctor for other uses of the drug.

Ampicillin Storage
Store at room temperature between 15C(59 F) and 30C(86 F) away from moisture and sunlight.Do not store in the bathroom.

Ampicillin Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history.Ampicillin is excreted in breast milk and may cause diarrhea or allergic responses in nursing infants. If ampicillin is used during pregnancy,the potential benefit of ampicillin for the mother should be weighed against the potential risk of side effects in the infant.