AMPICILLIN (Omnipen®, Principen®, Totacillin®) is a penicillin antibiotic. Ampicillin kills bacteria that cause infection, or stops the growth of bacteria. It treats many kinds of infections of the skin, central nervous system, heart, respiratory tract, sinuses, ear, and kidney. Ampicillin also treats some sexually transmitted disease. Generic ampicillin capsules are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•asthma
•eczema
•kidney disease
•leukemia
•mononucleosis
•stomach problems (especially colitis)
•virus infection
•other chronic illness
•an unusual or allergic reaction to ampicillin, other penicillins, imipenem, cephalosporin antibiotics, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?
Take ampicillin capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take ampicillin 1 to 2 hours before or at least 2 hours after eating; taking it with food can make it less effective. Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water; take capsules while in an upright or sitting position. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescribers advice.

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. There should be an interval of at least 6 to 8 hours between doses.

What drug(s) may interact with ampicillin?
•allopurinol
•certain antibiotics given by injection
•clavulanic acid
•entacapone
•female hormones, including contraceptive or birth control pills
•methotrexate
•probenecid

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.