Ampicillin

It is a semi-synthetic penicillin and is stable in the presence of gastric acid and is well absorbed from G.I.T. Ampicillin is excreted largely unchanged in the urine and is inactivated by penicillinase producing organisms.

Indications

Respiratory, genito-urinary, gastro-intestinal, skin, soft tissue and generalized systemic infections.

Dosage

Adults: 250-500 mg 8 hrly or as required. Children: 125-250 mg 6 hrly or according to age. Infants: 50-150 mg/kg body wt in 2-4 divided doses

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity to penicillin.

Special Precautions

Infectious mononucleosis, Allergic and anaphylactic reactions. Periodic assessment of renal, hepatic functions & blood counts. Concurrent use of allopurinol. Paediatrics: Safe. Pregnancy: Safe. Lactation: Safe. Elderly: Safe.

Side Effects

Skin rash, pruritus, urticaria and G.I. upsets diarrhoea

Drug Interactions

Simultanceous use with oral contraceptives may lead to break through bleeding or pregnancy. Effect reduced by bacteriostatic agents . Probenecid increases blood levels. Synergy with clavulinic acid. Food interferes with absorption.