Ampicillin is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of infections, including sinusitis, strep throat, pneumonia, respiratory tract, ear infections, dental abscesses, skin infections, and STDs like gonorrhea and syphilis, infections of the genital and urinary tract.Ampicillin kills bacteria by destroying the cell walls of the invading microorganisms. However, Ampicillin is not effective against viruses and fungi and there are a number of bacteria, the so-called “super bugs” that are resistant to penicillin antibiotics including Ampicillin.
If you are allergic to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, check with your physician before taking Ampicillin.
People with Cystic fibrosis are more prone to side effects from penicillin antibiotic like Ampicillin.
Those who are using oral contraceptives should switch to other methods of contraceptives while taking Ampicillin.
If you have ever had asthma, hives, hay fever, or other allergic reaction to penicillin consult with your physician before taking Ampicillin.
Stop taking Ampicillin if you experience reactions such as rash, fever, itching, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and or sores on the genitals.
It is imperative to take Ampicillin for the entire course your physician has prescribed. Even if you feel better, you should to continue taking Ampicillin.
Ampicillin should not be taken on an empty stomach.
Tell your physician if you have ever had asthma, colitis, diabetes, or kidney or liver disease before taking Ampicillin.
Side effects of Ampicillin may include upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, colitis, confusion, convulsions, dizziness, hives, liver problems and jaundice, fungal infections, rash, tooth discoloration in children, and appetite loss.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your physician before taking Ampicillin.
Nursing mothers should switch to bottle-feed while taking Ampicillin.
Check with your doctor before combining Ampicillin with the following:
Antacids
Beta-blockers
Blood thinning drugs
Chloramphenicol
Erythromycin
NSAIDs like Aleve or ibuprofen
Oral contraceptives
Probenecid
Tetracycline
Do not take Ampicillin with carbonated drinks or fruit juices.
Ampicillin may cause vitamin deficiency. It is recommended to take daily multivitamins while taking Ampicillin.
ADULTS
250-1000mg every 6 hours.
CHILDREN
25-100mg per pound of body weight, in 4-6 divided doses, daily.
Symptoms of Ampicillin overdose may include short breath, diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.
If you suspect an Ampicillin overdose, seek medical attention right aw
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