What are the primary uses of ampicillin. How is ampicillin administered. What are the common side effects of ampicillin. Are there any significant drug interactions with ampicillin. What precautions should be taken when using ampicillin.

Understanding Ampicillin: An Overview of the Antibiotic

Ampicillin is a versatile antibiotic belonging to the penicillin group of drugs. It’s widely used in both human and veterinary medicine to treat various bacterial infections. As a broad-spectrum antibiotic, ampicillin is effective against many types of bacteria, making it a valuable tool in the fight against infectious diseases.

Is ampicillin available under different brand names. Yes, ampicillin is marketed under various trade names, including Omni-Pen®, Teva-ampicillin®, Polyflex®, Aminopenicillin®, Principen®, and Princillin®. Despite the different brand names, the active ingredient remains the same, ensuring consistent efficacy across products.

The Mechanism of Action: How Ampicillin Fights Bacteria

Ampicillin works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the bacterial cell wall, preventing the cross-linking of peptidoglycan molecules. This weakens the cell wall, ultimately leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.

How does ampicillin’s mechanism of action contribute to its broad-spectrum activity. The antibiotic’s ability to target a fundamental process in bacterial cell wall formation allows it to be effective against a wide range of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. This broad-spectrum activity makes ampicillin a versatile choice for treating various infections.

Bactericidal vs. Bacteriostatic Effects

Ampicillin primarily exhibits bactericidal effects, meaning it actively kills bacteria rather than just inhibiting their growth. This property is particularly beneficial in treating severe infections or in immunocompromised patients where rapid bacterial clearance is crucial.

Common Uses of Ampicillin in Medical Practice

Ampicillin is prescribed for a wide range of bacterial infections affecting different parts of the body. Its broad-spectrum activity makes it a valuable first-line treatment option in many cases.

• Respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Meningitis (in combination with other antibiotics)
• Septicemia
• Endocarditis prophylaxis

Can ampicillin be used to treat all types of bacterial infections. While ampicillin is effective against many bacterial strains, it’s not suitable for all infections. Some bacteria have developed resistance to ampicillin, and certain infections may require alternative antibiotics. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ampicillin in Veterinary Medicine

In veterinary practice, ampicillin is commonly used to treat various infections in animals, including dogs, cats, and livestock. It’s particularly effective against respiratory, urinary, and skin infections in pets.

Dosage Forms and Administration Routes

Ampicillin is available in multiple dosage forms to suit different medical needs and patient preferences. The choice of formulation often depends on the severity of the infection, the patient’s condition, and the prescriber’s judgment.

1. Oral capsules (250 mg, 500 mg)
2. Oral tablets (250 mg, 500 mg, 1 g)
3. Oral suspension (125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL)
4. Injectable solutions for intramuscular or intravenous use (250 mg, 500 mg, 1 g, 2 g)
5. Powder for reconstitution (for oral suspension or injection)

How does the route of administration affect ampicillin’s efficacy. Intravenous administration typically results in higher and more rapid blood concentrations compared to oral dosing. This makes IV ampicillin particularly useful for severe infections or in situations where rapid antibiotic action is crucial. Oral formulations, while more convenient, may have slightly lower bioavailability but are generally sufficient for less severe infections.

Dosing Considerations

The appropriate dosage of ampicillin varies depending on several factors, including:

• Type and severity of infection
• Patient’s age, weight, and renal function
• Route of administration
• Presence of other medical conditions

Typical adult dosages range from 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours for oral administration, while intravenous doses may be higher, ranging from 1 to 2 grams every 4 to 6 hours for severe infections.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

While ampicillin is generally well-tolerated, it can cause various side effects. Most are mild and resolve on their own, but some may require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash or itching
• Headache
• Vaginal yeast infection

Serious Side Effects

Though rare, serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Liver or kidney problems
• Blood disorders

How can patients minimize the risk of side effects when taking ampicillin. To reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions, patients should:

1. Inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and allergies
2. Take the medication exactly as prescribed
3. Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve
4. Report any unusual or severe side effects to their doctor promptly

Drug Interactions and Precautions

Ampicillin can interact with various medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe and effective treatment.

Notable Drug Interactions

• Oral contraceptives: Ampicillin may reduce their effectiveness
• Allopurinol: May increase the risk of skin rash
• Probenecid: Can increase ampicillin blood levels
• Methotrexate: Ampicillin may increase its toxicity
• Warfarin: Potential for increased anticoagulant effect

Are there any foods or beverages that should be avoided while taking ampicillin. Unlike some antibiotics, ampicillin doesn’t have significant food interactions. However, taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Alcohol should be avoided as it can increase the risk of side effects and potentially interfere with the healing process.

Special Precautions

Certain groups of patients require special consideration when prescribed ampicillin:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Ampicillin is generally considered safe but should be used under medical supervision
• Patients with renal impairment: May require dose adjustment
• Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to penicillins or cephalosporins
• Patients with mononucleosis: Increased risk of skin rash

Antimicrobial Resistance and Ampicillin

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance poses a significant challenge to the effectiveness of antibiotics like ampicillin. Understanding this issue is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients.

Mechanisms of Resistance

Bacteria can develop resistance to ampicillin through various mechanisms:

• Production of beta-lactamase enzymes that break down the antibiotic
• Alterations in penicillin-binding proteins
• Decreased permeability of the bacterial cell wall
• Active efflux pumps that expel the antibiotic from bacterial cells

How does ampicillin resistance impact treatment options. The prevalence of ampicillin-resistant bacteria has led to changes in prescribing practices. In many cases, ampicillin may be combined with beta-lactamase inhibitors (e.g., sulbactam) or alternative antibiotics may be chosen based on susceptibility testing.

Preventing Antibiotic Resistance

To help combat antimicrobial resistance, healthcare providers and patients should follow these guidelines:

1. Use antibiotics only when necessary and prescribed by a healthcare professional
2. Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed
3. Avoid sharing antibiotics or using leftover medications
4. Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infections
5. Encourage research and development of new antibiotics and alternative treatments

Future Perspectives and Research

As antimicrobial resistance continues to be a global concern, ongoing research aims to enhance the efficacy of ampicillin and develop new strategies to combat resistant bacteria.

Combination Therapies

Researchers are exploring novel combinations of ampicillin with other compounds to overcome resistance mechanisms. These include:

• New beta-lactamase inhibitors
• Natural products with synergistic effects
• Nanoparticle delivery systems to enhance antibiotic penetration

Alternative Approaches

Beyond traditional antibiotic development, scientists are investigating alternative strategies to treat bacterial infections:

• Bacteriophage therapy
• Immunomodulatory approaches
• CRISPR-based antimicrobials
• Antivirulence strategies targeting bacterial pathogenicity

What role will ampicillin play in future antimicrobial strategies. While new approaches are being developed, ampicillin is likely to remain an important antibiotic. Its broad-spectrum activity, well-established safety profile, and potential for modification make it a valuable component of future combination therapies and targeted delivery systems.

Conclusion: The Continuing Importance of Ampicillin in Modern Medicine

Ampicillin, despite challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance, remains a crucial tool in the fight against bacterial infections. Its broad-spectrum activity, various formulations, and well-understood pharmacological profile make it a valuable antibiotic in both human and veterinary medicine.

As we move forward, the responsible use of ampicillin, coupled with ongoing research and development, will be key to preserving its effectiveness. Healthcare providers, patients, and researchers all play vital roles in ensuring that ampicillin continues to be a reliable treatment option for future generations.

By understanding the proper use, potential side effects, and importance of antibiotic stewardship, we can maximize the benefits of ampicillin while minimizing the risks associated with its use. As part of a comprehensive approach to infectious disease management, ampicillin will undoubtedly continue to save lives and improve health outcomes worldwide.

Ampicillin: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action

Injection, solution	Intravenous	1 g/3mL
Tablet, film coated	Oral	500 mg
Capsule, coated	Oral	500 mg
Tablet, film coated	Oral
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1.5 g
Injection, powder, for solution	Parenteral	1 g
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1 g
Suspension	Oral	2.5 g
Injection, powder, for solution	Parenteral	1000 mg
Powder, for suspension	Oral	5 g
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 mg
Injection, powder, for suspension	Parenteral	500 mg
Injection, powder, for solution	Parenteral	500 mg
Capsule, coated	Oral	250 mg
Tablet	Oral	250 mg
Tablet	Oral	1 g
Powder, for suspension	Oral	2. 5 g
Capsule	Oral	250 mg/1
Capsule	Oral	500 mg/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1 g/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1 g/1mL
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	125 mg/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	2 g/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	250 mg/1mL
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	250 mg/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 mg/1mL
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 mg/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous	1 g/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous	10 g/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous	10 g/100mL
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous	2 g/1mL
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous	2 g/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous	250 mg/1
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous	500 mg/1
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1 g/1g
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	2 g/2g
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	250 mg/250mg
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 mg/500mg
Suspension	Oral	125 mg/5mL
Suspension	Oral	25 mg/1mL
Suspension	Oral	250 mg/5mL
Suspension	Oral	50 mg/1mL
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous
Injection, powder, for solution	Intravenous
Injection, powder, for suspension	Intramuscular; Intravenous
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	10 g / vial
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	2 g / vial
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1000 mg / vial
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	2000 mg / vial
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 mg / vial
Suspension	Oral
Tablet	Oral
Injection, powder, for solution	Parenteral
Injection, powder, for solution		1 G
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 MG/2. 5ML
Powder	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1000 MG
Powder	Intramuscular; Intravenous	250 MG
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular
Powder, for solution	Intravenous	2 g / vial
Ointment	Ophthalmic
Solution / drops	Oral
Injection	Intramuscular; Intravenous	250 mg
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	2 g
Injection, powder, for solution	Parenteral	1 G/4mL
Injection, powder, for solution	Parenteral	500 MG/2.5mL
Powder, for suspension	Oral	250 MG
Powder, for suspension	Oral	250 MG/5ML
Solution / drops	Oral	2 g/20ml
Suspension	Oral	3 g
Granule
Tablet, soluble	Oral	250 mg
Injection, solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous
Liquid	Oral	125 mg / 5 mL
Injection	Intramuscular; Intravenous
Tablet	Oral
Injection	Intramuscular
Injection, powder, for solution
Powder, for suspension	Oral	5000 mg
Tablet	Oral	1000 mg
Injection, solution	Intramuscular
Injection	Intramuscular; Intravenous
Tablet	Oral	1 gr
Tablet	Oral	500 mg
Powder, for solution	Oral	500 mg / 5 mL
Powder, for solution	Oral	125 mg / 5 mL
Powder, for solution	Oral	250 mg / 5 mL
Suspension	Oral	125 mg / 5 mL
Suspension	Oral	250 mg / 5 mL
Injection	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1 g
Injection	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 mg
Injection, powder, for solution
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	250 mg
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1 g / vial
Liquid	Intramuscular; Intravenous	2 g / vial
Powder, for solution	Intravenous	1 g / vial
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	125 mg / vial
Powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	250 mg / vial
Syrup
Suspension	Oral	80 ml
Solution / drops	Oral	30 ml
Suspension	Oral	8 ml
Powder, for suspension	Oral
Capsule; tablet	Oral
Injection, powder, for solution	Parenteral
Capsule	Oral
Capsule	Oral	250 mg / cap
Capsule	Oral	500 mg / cap
Powder
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	1 g
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	2 g
Injection, powder, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous	500 mg
Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution	Intramuscular; Intravenous
Injection, powder, for solution		1 g/vial
Injection, powder, for solution		250 mg
Injection, powder, for solution		500 mg
Capsule	Oral	250 mg
Capsule	Oral	500 mg
Powder, for suspension	Oral	125 mg/5ml
Tablet	Oral	125 mg
Tablet, film coated	Oral	125 mg

Ampicillin | VCA Animal Hospitals

What is ampicillin?

Ampicillin (brand names: Omni-Pen®, Teva-ampicillin®, Polyflex, Aminopenicillin®, Principen®, Princillin®, Totacillin®) is an antibacterial medication used to treat certain bacterial infections in small and large animals.

Its use in cats, dogs, and other small animals to treat certain conditions is ‘off label’ or ‘extra-label’. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully as their direction may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is ampicillin given?

Ampicillin trihydrate injection is given under the skin or into the muscle, but should NOT be given into the vein, as this can cause sudden death. If giving subcutaneous injections at home, use a new needle and syringe for each injection, and dispose of the needle and syringe into a proper sharps disposal container. Ampicillin sodium is given in the hospital by injection into the vein (IV).

Ampicillin is also available as a liquid oral solution, tablet, or capsule and is given by mouth. If given by mouth, give on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after feeding. If vomiting occurs after dosing on an empty stomach, try giving future doses with food or a small treat.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, but effects may not be visibly obvious for a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it when you remember, but if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.

Are there any potential side effects?

Side effects are not common, but may include allergic reaction, lack of appetite, pain at the injection site, vomiting, and diarrhea. In dogs, incoordination is associated with very high doses. Increased breathing rate, breathing problems, swelling, increased heart rate, and elevated liver values on bloodwork have been reported. In cats, if there is a complete loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Ampicillin can cause false positives with certain urine glucose tests.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

Ampicillin should not be used in patients that are hypersensitive to penicillin-type antibiotics and should be used with caution in patients that are hypersensitive to beta-lactam antibiotics. Avoid use of this medication in rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, or hamsters.

Using ampicillin during pregnancy and lactation has not been shown to be problematic, but it has not been clearly established as safe. Therefore, ampicillin should be used with caution in pregnant or lactating pets, and only used when the benefits will outweigh the risks.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following medications should be used with caution when given with ampicillin: allopurinol, aminoglycosides, atenolol, bacteriostatic antimicrobials, dichlorphenamide, lanthanum, methotrexate, mycophenolate, pantoprazole, probenecid, and warfarin.

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.

Is there any monitoring that needs to be done with this medication?

There is no specific monitoring that needs to be done while your pet is taking this medication. Your veterinarian may monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working.

How do I store ampicillin?

Ampicillin trihydrate powder should be stored below 25°C (77°F) with trips permitted up to 30°C (86°F), and the reconstituted suspension should be stored for up to 3 months in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Tablets, capsules, and powder for oral use should be stored at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Once reconstituted, the oral suspension should be stored in the refrigerator and discarded after 14 days. It may be stored at room temperature, but in these cases, it should be discarded after 7 days.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.

Active substance AMPICILLIN (AMPICILLINUM) | Compendium – drug reference book

• Pharmacological properties
• Indications AMPICILLIN
• Application of AMPICILLIN
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Special instructions
• Interactions
• Overdose
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

Medicinal preparations containing the active substance AMPICILLIN

Prices in pharmacies

Prices in pharmacies

Prices in pharmacies

Semi-synthetic antibiotic of the penicillin group. It has a bactericidal effect by competitive blocking of transpeptidases involved in the synthesis of the mucopeptide, which is part of the cell membrane. Active against proliferating bacteria. Effective against gram-positive and some gram-negative microorganisms, including E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Haemophilus influenzae, Bordetella pertussis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Neisseria meningitidis. Ampicillin is also active against gram-positive anaerobic cocci and bacteria (Peptococcus spp., Pertosteptococcus spp., Clostridium spp., Corynebacterium spp.). Penicillinase-forming staphylococci are resistant to ampicillin.

When taken orally, ampicillin is not destroyed in the acidic environment of the stomach and is well absorbed in the digestive tract. Simultaneous ingestion of food reduces the absorption of the antibiotic. C _max in the blood is achieved 1-2 hours after administration and slowly decreases over 6 hours.

Cmax _max in blood plasma after i / m administration is reached after 1 hour. About 28% of ampicillin binds to plasma proteins. T _½ from blood plasma is 1-2 hours, in newborns, the elderly and patients with impaired renal function may be lengthened.

Ampicillin is well distributed in tissues and body fluids. Weakly penetrates through the BBB, with meningitis its concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid increases. Penetrates through the placental barrier. Small amounts are found in breast milk. It is excreted unchanged by the kidneys by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion, about 20% of the antibiotic is excreted in the bile. Partially removed during hemodialysis.

infections caused by ampicillin-susceptible organisms, including bronchitis, pneumonia, lung abscess, pyelonephritis, cystitis, otitis media, sinusitis, tonsillitis, gynecological infections, biliary tract infections, digestive tract infections caused by shigella or salmonella (ampicillin is also used for sanitation of carriers), infections of the skin and soft tissues, sepsis, meningitis, endocarditis, prevention of postoperative complications.

orally, IM, IV. The dose of ampicillin is set individually depending on the localization of the process and the severity of the disease.

Adults usually take 250-500 mg 4 times a day. In severe infections, the dose of ampicillin may be increased.

Children are prescribed at a dose of 50-100 mg/kg of body weight per day in 4 divided doses. Children weighing >20 kg – at the adult dose. In severe infections, the dose of ampicillin may be increased.

Duration of treatment – 7-14 days or more. Treatment with ampicillin should be continued for at least 48-72 hours after normalization of body temperature and the disappearance of symptoms of the disease. For infections caused by hemolytic streptococcus, the duration of treatment should be at least 10 days.

In renal insufficiency, the dose and interval between injections must be adjusted according to the plasma creatinine concentration.

hypersensitivity to penicillin antibiotics.

possible allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, candidiasis of the oral mucosa, pseudomembranous colitis (both during treatment and a few weeks after its termination), reversible disorders of hematopoiesis and, in some cases, interstitial nephritis are rarely noted.

During treatment with ampicillin, transient increases in plasma aminotransferases, LDH, alkaline phosphatase, and creatinine, a false-positive glucosuric test, and a false-positive Coombs reaction may occur.

An antibiotic susceptibility test should be performed before using ampicillin. With extreme caution prescribed to patients with hypersensitivity to cephalosporins, griseofulvin or penicillamine. With long-term treatment with ampicillin, it is recommended to periodically monitor the function of the kidneys, liver and hematopoietic organs.

The possibility of superinfection caused by pathogenic fungi or resistant bacteria should be considered. With the development of superinfection, adequate therapy is prescribed.

If combined parenteral treatment with ampicillin and aminoglycoside antibiotics is required, they should be administered at different sites with an interval of 1 hour due to the risk of inactivation. Ampicillin may cause a decrease in the effectiveness of oral hormonal contraceptives. Ampicillin in high doses reduces the level of atenolol in the blood plasma, so it is recommended to use these drugs separately, with atenolol taken before the use of ampicillin. Simultaneous use with allopurinol significantly increases the likelihood of skin rashes. Probenecid may reduce the excretion of ampicillin by the kidneys and lead to an increase in plasma concentrations.

During treatment with ampicillin, false-positive results of non-enzymatic glucosuric tests may be determined.

symptomatic treatment. In patients with impaired renal function, antibiotics such as ampicillin can be removed by hemodialysis, but not by peritoneal dialysis.

Allergy test Ampicillin

Ampicillin is an antibacterial drug of the semi-synthetic penicillin group and is a widely used drug. Its effectiveness has been noted in the treatment of many diseases: dermatoses, sepsis, bronchitis and pneumonia, sinusitis, cystitis, pyelonephritis, whooping cough.

Ampicillin has been used for the treatment of humans and farm birds and animals since 1961. Its action is aimed at preventing harmful bacteria from synthesizing their own walls. Thus, the drug destroys them. The drug is excreted in the urine and bile, and also enters breast milk. That is why prescribing it to lactating women is fraught with risks.

However, ampicillin is not a panacea. There is a whole range of microorganisms on which it does not have its destructive effect. That is why, before ampicillin therapy, specialists can send for tests to identify pathogens. It is not used in the treatment of diseases caused by certain staphylococci, as well as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, certain strains of Klebsiella, Enterobacter and Proteus vulgaris.

Despite their action on a wide range of microorganisms, it has been observed that antibiotics that belong to the penicillin series can very often have side effects and cause allergic reactions , which can give serious complications: urticaria, Quincke’s edema, bronchospasm and anaphylactic shock.

During an allergy , an immune reaction develops to a drug that has entered the blood – the body perceives it as a foreign agent and tries to get rid of it. The reaction to penicillins can be of an immediate type – with the production of specific IgE and delayed type – IgG antibodies are produced.

Determination of the presence and amount of specific IgG is a necessary method that is used in addition to the study of IgE. The analysis assists in diagnosing the cause of a drug allergy.

Indications for an allergy test to Ampicillin

0083 IgG antibodies, it manifests itself:

• skin rash, very similar to measles rash;
• intense thirst;
• nausea and vomiting;
• pallor and yellowness of the skin;
• muscle pain and weakness;
• convulsions;
• headache;
• fever;
• swollen lymph nodes;
• diarrhea;
• bleeding from the nose and rectum;
• the appearance of sores in the mouth and on the lips;
• difficulty urinating;
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat.

An experienced specialist will immediately cancel the drug and order an immunological study.

Allergy to other drugs and food when allergic to ampicillin

Ampicillin is not the only drug in its group. And this means that in the presence of an allergy to ampicillin, an allergic reaction to other drugs of the penicillin group may be detected. For example, when identifying an allergy to ampicillin, they most often talk about an allergy to benzylpenicillin.

In addition, semi-synthetic penicillin preparations often have different trade names. If you find an allergy to ampicillin, you will have to carefully read the instructions for all prescribed drugs. The drugs may be trade-named Flemoclav, Zetsil, Stanlacillin, Amibactam, Ampiox, Complisan, Libakcil, Oksamp, Oksamsar, Pensilina, Sultasin, Sulmacefta others. If the active substance according to the instructions is semi-synthetic penicillin or ampicillin, then admission to persons with identified allergies is prohibited.

Allergies can be found in both adults and children, as well as in adolescence. In case of individual intolerance to ampicillin, it is necessary to notify the attending physician about this before prescribing any drugs during therapy.

In general, the identified allergy to ampicillin does not reduce the patient’s quality of life. The only prescription that she or he will have to follow is not to use the drug with semi-synthetic penicillin and to warn the attending physician about allergies.

Foods that have been prepared with molds pose some risk to the patient. For example, blue cheeses can be made with penicillin-producing fungi. As you might guess, people with an allergy to semi-synthetic ampicillin are not shown to eat blue cheeses. Experts note that the use of 30-50 or more grams of cheese with blue mold can lead to dysbacteriosis and other allergy symptoms. Therefore, when eating a cheese platter or any dish with cheese, it is necessary to exclude the ingress of cheeses with blue mold.

Rarely, penicillin can be ingested through the consumption of meat from livestock or poultry. This happens if animals and birds were treated with penicillin. Since penicillin enters the milk, it may be in the haze of cows or goats when animals are treated with this antibiotic. Another thing is that in large dairies, animals that have been injected with penicillin preparations are usually not used for some time to obtain milk for sale. Also, both meat and dairy products are controlled before entering the shelves. And yet, sometimes traces of penicillin antibiotics are found in meat or milk during tests. As a rule, these are insignificant concentrations that do not lead to the development of allergy symptoms. But if characteristic symptoms appear after drinking milk or meat, you should stop taking it and choose another product, possibly from another manufacturer.

If you exclude the use of preparations with semi-synthetic penicillin and products with natural penicillin, then the identified allergy does not threaten the patient’s health in any way. To date, enough information has been collected on the treatment of various diseases with antibiotics of other groups. In this case, the attending physician will prescribe another drug for therapy and, together with the patient, will monitor the progress of recovery.

Preparation for analysis

The analysis is carried out in laboratory conditions, the biomaterial is blood from a vein . The selection is carried out from 8 to 11 am, the patient is advised not to have breakfast and not to smoke. To obtain accurate results, it is advisable to follow simple rules:

1. a day before the study, stop taking all medications if it is impossible to notify the laboratory assistant;
2. on the eve of the analysis cancel sports training;
3. it is advisable to have dinner no later than 9 pm, do not overeat and do not take alcohol.

Interpretation of test results

IgG antibodies are analyzed using immunochemiluminescence assay – ICLA.

The content of the IgG antibody:

• up to 49.9 mg/l – negative result, allergy to ampicillin was not detected;
• from 50.05 to 99.9 mg/l – slight presence of antibodies – positive result;
• from 100 to 199 mg/l – a moderate amount, allergy symptoms are clearly expressed;
• above 200 mg/l – high antibody titer, intolerance to ampicillin.

The responses to the analysis are evaluated by the attending physician based on the clinical symptoms of the allergic reaction, medical history and responses from other investigations.

Antihistamines and hormonal drugs may affect the test result.

There are a number of cases in which an allergy to penicillin antibiotics can be misdiagnosed. For example, in the presence of the Epstein-Barr virus and the appointment of synthetic penicillin, a rash may occur, which can be mistaken for symptoms of an allergy to ampicillin. In addition, in some cases, a specialist may decide to prescribe treatment for ampicillin hypersensitivity, but this should not be carried out independently. During such therapy, penicillin preparations are started in microdoses, gradually increasing them, and the patient’s well-being is closely monitored.

During the test, cystologists use the passive leukocyte alteration method and the enzyme immunoassay method. Also talk about immunochemiluminescent analysis. The IgE allergen is also called the C203 allergen.

The test is accurate in detecting allergies in about 83% of cases, making it highly sensitive. If an allergy to penicillins is suspected, but the test does not confirm this, it is worth consulting with your doctor. It is the specialist who decides whether to retake the test or to study a probable allergy to other drugs from the penicillin group.

In general, the effect of the penicillin group on the human body is fairly well studied. For example, when ingested, benzylpenicillin is metabolized into a substance called penicilloyl. Approximately 90% of benzylpenicillin is transformed into penicilloyl. Further, specialists using poly-d-lysine produce an allergen from penicilloyl, which is used by cytologists in test-tube studies for the presence of allergies.