Ampicillin (Omnipen-n, Polycillin-n)

Ampicillin Review

Treatment of susceptible bacterial infections (nonbeta-lactamase-producing organisms); treatment or prophylaxis of infective endocarditis; susceptible bacterial infections caused by streptococci, pneumococci, nonpenicillinase-producing staphylococci, Listeria, meningococci; some strains of H. influenzae, Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, Enterobacter, and Klebsiella

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Ampicillin Drug Class and Mechanism

Belonging to the penicillin group of beta-lactam antibiotics, ampicillin is able to penetrate Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria. It differs from penicillin only by the presence of an amino group. That amino group helps the drug penetrate the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. Ampicillin acts as a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme transpeptidase. Transpeptidase is needed by bacteria to make their cell walls. It inhibits the third and final stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis, which ultimately leads to cell lysis.

Ampicillin Uses

Food in the stomach reduces how much and how quickly ampicillin is absorbed. Administration should be either 1 hour prior to or 2 hours following a meal for maximal absorption. However, for persons who experience nausea or stomach distress after taking ampicillin, it may be taken with meals. Ampicillin most often is given four times a day for 7 to 14 days. When used to treat gonorrhea, it is given as a single large dose (for example, seven 500mg capsules) with probenecid. The probenecid slows down the elimination of the ampicillin so that the ampicillin remains in the body longer.

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Ampicillin Side Effects

Allergic reactions are relatively common side effects during therapy with any of the penicillins. These reactions can range from rashes to anaphylaxis, a severe condition in which there may be shock and even death. Rashes occur more frequently with ampicillin than with the other penicillins. The incidence of rash with ampicillin seems to be higher in patients with viral illnesses, such as mononucleosis. Patients with a history of allergic reaction to any other penicillin should not receive ampicillin. Persons who are allergic to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics which is more distantly related to the penicillins (e.g., Ceclor, Keflex, Cefzil) may or may not be allergic to penicillins.

Ampicillin Pregnancy

Ampicillin is considered safe during pregnancy

Ampicillin Overdose

Symptoms of penicillin overdose include neuromuscular hypersensitivity (eg, agitation, hallucinations, asterixis, encephalopathy, confusion, and seizures). Electrolyte imbalance may occur if the preparation contains potassium or sodium salts, especially in renal failure. Hemodialysis may be helpful to aid in removal of the drug from blood; otherwise, treatment is supportive or symptom-directed.

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