Ampicillin (Amcill, Omnipen, Polycillin, Principen)

Category:

• Antibiotic

Description:

• Penicillins

Indications:

• Mild to moderate infections, Respiratory Tract Infections

Contraindications:

• None

  Precautions:

• Pregnancy category B

• Use with caution in patients with PCN or cephalosporin allergy (5-10% chance of cross-reactivity)

• Counsel patient to finish all medication to prevent development of resistance

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• Hypersensitivity (rash not representing a true allergy)

• Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Vaginitis

Dosage:

• Administered orally (capsules, powder for oral suspension) and IV or IM (powder for injection)

  • Adult:

    • 250-500mg q6h

  • Child:

    • 50mg/kg/day in divided doses q6h

    • For oral suspension:  refrigerate, shake well, good for 10 days only