Ampicillin

Ampicillin, drug used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and respiratory tract. An antibiotic like penicillin, ampicillin interferes with the invading bacteria’s ability to multiply in the body.

Available by prescription in liquid and capsule form, ampicillin is usually taken orally with a full glass of water either one hour before a meal or two hours after. Another liquid form is administered by injection. Doses range from 200 to 1000 mg every six hours, with a maximum dosage of 6000 mg per day.

Signs of infection usually disappear after several days of treatment, but an entire course of medication, usually a seven- to ten-day course, should be taken to avoid any recurrence of infection. Children may take ampicillin, but they should be monitored for such side effects as diarrhea or skin rash.

Patients who are allergic to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics should not take this drug. Its safety for use in pregnant women has not been determined. Diabetic patients should be aware that ampicillin may affect the accuracy of urine glucose monitoring tests.