The Web Health

Subscribe

Ampicillin and sulbactam

Generic Name: ampicillin and sulbactam [am-pi-SIL-in and sul-BAK-tam],
Brand names: include Unasyn and Unasyn ADD-Vantage for injection, along with dose forms (1g to 0.55g; 10 g-5g and 2 g-1 g for subcutaneous use respectively)
Dosage Forms:
include injectable powder for subcutaneous administration (1-0.5 g, 10, 5, 2 or 1.5) for optimal outcomes
Drug class: beta-lactamase inhibitors

What is Ampicillin and sulbactam?

Ampicillin and sulbactam are penicillin antibiotics that fight against bacteria.Ampicillin and sulbactam are combination medicines that are used to treat a variety of infections that are caused by bacteria.Ampicillin and sulbactam can also be used to treat conditions that are not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Ampicillin and sulbactam?

Seek medical attention immediately when you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction (hives or breathing difficulties and swelling in your throat or face) or an extreme skin reaction (fever and sore throat, burnt eyes, irritation, and a red or purple skin eruption with peeling and blisters).

Ampicillin and sulbactam can result in serious side effects. Contact your physician immediately if you experience:

  • Intense stomach pains; diarrhoea that is bloody or watery (even when it happens months after the previous dose);
  • Thrush (white patches in your throat or mouth);
  • Heart problems: rapid heartbeats and chest pains or pressure and pain that spreads into your shoulder or jaw, nausea, sweating;
  • Liver disorders: nausea, abdomen pain discomfort, tiredness, lack of appetite, dark urine, stools that are clay-coloured, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin) or
  • Symptoms of a new infection: fever, fatigue, headache, earache, or drainage of the eyes; redness or pain; or a rash on your skin; pimples or sores that have the appearance of pus. Joint pain, chronic back pain or neck pain, diarrhoea, or burning after you urinate.

Common adverse effects of ampicillin and sulbactam can include:

  • Diarrhoea;
  • Rash;
  • Swelling, black, and "hairy" tongue;
  • Vaginal discharge or itching
  • There was pain where the medicine was injected.

This list does not constitute an exhaustive listing of side effects.Other side effects could be present. Contact your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Similar or related drugs

Prednisone, Amoxicillin, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Cephalexin, Metronidazole, and Azithromycin

Warnings

Do not take ampicillin or sulbactam if you have had an allergy to any kind of cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotic or suffered liver issues while using sulbactam and ampicillin.

Before you take this drug

It is not recommended to take this medicine if you're allergic to ampicillin or sulbactam or if you've ever experienced

  • An extremely allergic reaction to any kind of antibiotic, such as penicillin or cephalosporin,
  • Liver issues (hepatitis and jaundice) during the use of ampicillin as well as sulbactam.

Speak to your doctor if you were ever diagnosed with:

  • Liver disease;
  • Mononucleosis (also referred to as "mono")
  • Kidney disease;
  • An an to a medication
  • Other allergies.

Inform your doctor if you are nursing or pregnant.Don't give the medication to an infant without medical guidance.

How to take Ampicillin and sulbactam?

Follow the directions on the prescription label and go through all medication guides or instructions sheets. Follow the medication exactly as prescribed.Ampicillin and sulbactam are instilled into muscles or infused into veins. The healthcare provider will provide the first dose and guide you on how to make use of the drug on your own.Ampicillin and sulbactam need to be mixed with liquid (diluent) prior to use. If you are using injections on your own, ensure that you know how to mix the medicine correctly and store the drug.After mixing ampicillin and sulbactam, you must take it out within a specified amount of time. This is contingent upon the diluent as well as the way you store the mix (at temperatures that are cool or in a fridge).Take note of and follow the instructions for use that come along with your medication. Consult your physician or pharmacist to clarify any instructions.Only inject once you're ready to administer it. Avoid using it when the medication is changing colour or has particles. Contact your pharmacist to inquire about the latest medication.The medicine is typically administered each day for 14 consecutive days. Follow your doctor's instructions for dosing extremely carefully.Make sure to take this medication for the entire prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve quickly. Inadequate doses could increase the risk of contracting an infection that is resistant to medications. Ampicillin and sulbactam do not cure the symptoms of a viral illness like influenza or a commonly occurring cold.You could require regular blood tests to test the liver's function.This medication can alter the results of some laboratory tests for sugar within the urinary tract. Be sure to inform any doctor who treats you that you're taking ampicillin or sulbactam.Keep ampicillin and sulbactam that are not mixed at room temperature away from heat and moisture.Make use of a needle and the syringe once only and put them in the punctureproof "sharps" container. Make sure you follow local or state laws regarding how to dispose of the container. Make sure it is out of reach of pets and children.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Take the medication as quickly as you can; however, do not miss any missed dosages if it's close to the time for the next dose. Don't take two doses in one go.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help Line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.An overdose may cause seizures (convulsions).

What should be avoided?

The use of antibiotics can trigger diarrhoea and could be a sign of a new infection. If you are experiencing diarrhoea that is bloody or watery and you are unsure of the cause, consult your physician before applying anti-diarrhoea medications.

Interaction with other drugs

Inform your physician of any other medications taken, including:

  • Allopurinol
  • Probenecid.

This list isn't comprehensive. Other medications may interact with ampicillin or sulbactam, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies. There are many possible interactions between drugs that are included here.