Information About Ampicillin

Common uses
Ampicillin is a penicillin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.

Prior to Use
Be aware that pre-existing medical conditions, or taking additional medications could interfere with the effectiveness of this one. Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. If you are taking any of the following, do not use Ampicillin: tetracycline antibiotics. If you are taking any of the following, your dose or condition may need regular supervision: birth control pills, "blood thinners", methotrexate, or injectable aminoglycosides. Inform your physician of any other medical conditions including mononucleosis, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. If you have questions or concerns about Ampicillin, be sure to let your physician or pharmacist know.

Instructions for Use
Follow your physician's instructions for taking Ampicillin. Take Ampicillin on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals or snacks. Store Ampicillin at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. In order to completely clear up your infection, continue taking Ampicillin for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Make sure that you do not skip a dose of Ampicillin. Should you skip or forget a dose of Ampicillin, begin using it immediately. If it is almost time for your next dose, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule. Never take more than one dose at the same time.

Warnings
Do not use Ampicillin if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a penicillin antibiotic (such as amoxicillin, ampicillin) or a cephalosporin antibiotic (such as Ceclor, Keflex, Ceftin, Duricef). A severe reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have a question about whether you are allergic to Ampicillin, contact your physician or pharmacist. If you experience difficulty breathing or tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or develop a rash or hives, tell your physician immediately. Do not use any more of Ampicillin unless your physician tells you to do so. Should you experience moderate to severe diarrhea either while taking or after you have stopped taking Ampicillin, consult your pharmacist or physician . Do not treat it with non-prescription (over-the-counter) medicines. For women taking birth control pills, Ampicillin may decrease the effectiveness of your birth control pills. To prevent pregnancy, use an additional form of birth control. Ampicillin is excreted in breast milk if you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Ampicillin, consult your pharmacist or physician to discuss the risks to your baby. If you have diabetes, Ampicillin may cause false test results with some urine glucose tests. Check with your physician before you adjust the dose of your diabetes medicine or change your diet.

Potential Side Effects
Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, mild diarrhea, or irritation of mouth or throat. Consult your physician if they do not go away or if they bring you difficulties. Consult your physician immediately if you experience vaginal irritation or discharge. An allergic reaction to Ampicillin is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.

Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.

In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed. Indications of an overdose are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Additional information
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days and consult your physician if they worsen. Do not let anyone else use Ampicillin. Do not take Ampicillin to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children.