AMPICILIN

This medicine contains the active ingredient ampicillin which belongs to a group of medicines called broad spectrum antibiotics. Antibiotics kill bacteria and stop the infection in your body. Ampicillin is used for stopping bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections, gastro- intestinal infections, enteric/typhoid fever, gynecological infections and gonorrhea, blood infection, skin and soft tissue infection; it is also used to prevent endocarditis, peritonitis, meningitis, after surgery or a dental procedure.

Is Ampicillin suitable for me?

Ampicillin is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to ampicillin, beta lactam antibiotics or any other penicillin or cephalosporin-type antibiotics or to any the other ingredients of this medicine

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant or breast-feeding
• have kidney problems
• think you have glandular fever
• are suffering from lymphatic leukemia

Ampicillin interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Ampicillin?

This medicine is available in form of a capsule and powder for oral suspension. All of these forms have different use. You should take ampicillin exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• The medicine should be taken orally on an empty stomach, at least thirty minutes to one hour before meal.
• The usual dose for adults is 250 mg four times a day, or 500 mg three to four times a day. Children under 10 years take half the dose. It is same for both forms, and it depends on the patient.
• Treatment usually lasts for no longer than 7-14 days.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Ampicillin side effects?

Like all medicines ampicillin can cause side effects, including:

Common side effects:

• diarrhea
• nausea and vomiting
• skin rash

Very rare side effects:

• temporary blood disorders 
• anemia

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.