It is also prescribed to patients who have inflamed membranes of the spinal cord or brain. Ampicillin is both a brand name in itself and is also available under various other names including Principen, and Bacipen. Either the original brand or at least one generic alternative is usually available with all pharmacies; if not, you can always buy generic Ampicillin online. It is usually supplied in capsule form, with a detailed patient information leaflet.
Ampicillin’s mode of action is very similar to Penicillin and it works by stopping the bacteria from growing. This is achieved by impairing the bacteria’s ability to form bonds and thereby pulling down their cell walls. The holes that appear in the cell walls allow the body’s immune system to take over and fight off the bacteria. Ampicillin has received FDA approval for its action of mechanism.
You can buy Ampicillin drugs as capsules containing either 50mg, 100mg, 250mg, or 500mg of the active ingredient. Your pharmacist will issue you the dosage that has been prescribed by your doctor.
Ampicillin capsules should always be taken around 30 minutes before or at least two hours after a meal, on an empty stomach, as food can interfere with the absorption of the drug into the bloodstream. The capsules should be taken with a full glass of water twice a day or as prescribed by your doctor.
You should avoid alcohol consumption while you are taking Ampicillin treatment as this could cause the infection to bounce back. Always complete the entire course prescribed by your doctor as stopping the medication halfway through could lead to the symptoms returning in full force.
The most common Ampicillin side effects that have been observed in most patients include colitis or bowel inflammation, fever, diarrhoea, nausea, itching, rash, sore tongue, vomiting and blood disorders. As long as you are not allergic to Ampicillin or penicillin, these side effects are not likely to be dangerous or severe. However, if any of these become persistent, you should check with your doctor.
Ampicillin side effects have not been studied adequately on pregnant women and so it is not entirely advisable for women to take this drug during pregnancy. However, if the doctor finds that its beneficial effects outweigh the risks, you might be issued a prescription.
