What is ampicillin?
Ampicillin is theworld’s first broad-spectrum semi-synthetic penicillin, used totreat infectionscaused by a wide variety of pathogenic microorganisms.
Its active ingredient is ampicillin, a bactericidal chemical compound belonging to the group of beta-lactams that actby inhibiting the last stage of the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, preventing its development and proliferation.
The commercial presentation of ampicillin is in 250 mg and500 mg capsules and5 mL oral suspension of 250 mg. Its administration is oral and the dose will depend on the medical evaluation, but thegeneral recommendation is as follows:
- Paediatric population up to 14 years of age: The recommended dose is 100 to 200 mg/kg/day divided into 4 doses (one every 6 hours), for at least 7 days.
- Adults: The dose is 500 mg to 1 g orally every 6 hours, 7 to 10 days depending on the evaluation of the attending physician.
Note: It is recommended to consume ampicillin on an empty stomach, one to two hours after meals and according to medical indications.
What is ampicillin used for?
As mentioned before, ampicillin is an antibacterial drug and is commonly used in the following cases:
1. Respiratory infections
streptococci including
You should know: Scientific studies indicate that the Haemophilus influenzae bacterium , which causes respiratory infections, has a sensitivity of 75.9% against ampicillin. (1)
2. Genitourinary infections
Urinary infections are caused by germs such as E. coli, P. mirabilis, Enterococcus spp., Shigella, S. typhosa, Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes and non-penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can cause diseases such as pyelonephritis, pyonephrosis, cystitis, pyelitis or urethritis.
To highlight: Ampicillin is a first generation antibiotic, for which many of the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections have already resisted, however it is still an option. (two)
3. Intestinal infections
In this sense, a publication of the “Spanish Association of Pediatrics and Primary Care” recommends the use of ampicillin as an alternative in infectious diseases such as gastroenteritis. (3)
Note: This medicine is also indicated to treat diseases such as meningitis and bacterial endocarditis.
Ampicillin Side Effects
The use of ampicillin can produce in certain patients some of the following Adverse effects:
- Allergic reactions from contact with any of the components of ampicillin.
- Diarrhea, nausea, and possible skin rash.
- There have been reports of anemia, thrombocytopenic purpura, eosinophilia, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis during the use of this medication.
- Other infections of bacteria not sensitive to ampicillin may appear during its use.
Important: If you notice the appearance of any of these symptoms or any other not included in this list, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
Contraindications of ampicillin
The use of this drug is contraindicated in the following cases:
- Hypersensitivity to any of the components of ampicillin or who has suffered from allergic reactions to penicillins.
- In patients with infectious mononucleosis.
- In individuals with renal insufficiency.
- In people with infections caused by organisms that produce penicillinase (enzyme produced by bacteria).
You should know: Before starting ampicillin therapy, you should review your medical history with your doctor.
Key Findings
- Ampicillin is a First Generation Synthetic Antibiotic used to treat certain infections.
- Its active principle is penicillin, a drug with antibacterial properties.
- This medicine is indicated for the treatment of some urinary, respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
- The prescription and administration of this drug must be carried out by a specialist doctor.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.