Principen (Ampicillin)
Principen (Ampicillin)
Principen (Ampicillin) is a prescription antibiotic belonging to the penicillin class. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria that cause infections. This medication is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including those of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, meningitis, gastrointestinal tract, and others. Ampicillin is known for its broad-spectrum effectiveness and is often prescribed when a bacterial infection needs prompt, targeted treatment.
Why Choose Principen (Ampicillin)?
- Helps treat a variety of bacterial infections effectively
- Works by stopping bacterial growth and spreading
- Can be used for respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal, and skin infections
- Often prescribed for both adults and children
- Available in convenient capsule and oral suspension forms
How to Use Principen (Ampicillin)?
- Take Principen exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider
- It can be taken with or without food; taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve early
- Take doses at evenly spaced intervals for the best results
- Store the liquid form in a refrigerator and discard any unused portion after 14 days
- Avoid skipping doses or stopping the medication early, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance
Important Safety Information about Principen
- Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics
- Use with caution if you have kidney disease or a history of allergic reactions
- Tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking
- This medication may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives; discuss alternative birth control options
- Do not share this medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms
Fact Table
| Facts | Details |
| Brand Name | Principen |
| Generic Name | Ampicillin |
| Drug Class | Penicillin-type Antibiotic |
| Dosage Forms | Capsules, Oral Suspension, Injection (IV/IM) |
| Route of Administration | Oral or Parenteral (Intramuscular/Intravenous) |
| Description | Principen (Ampicillin) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections by inhibiting cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. |
| Mechanism of Action | Ampicillin binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in bacterial cell walls, interfering with the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, resulting in bacterial lysis and death. |
| Indications / Uses | – Respiratory tract infections (pneumonia, bronchitis) – Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – Gastrointestinal infections (enteric fever, salmonellosis) – Meningitis – Septicemia – Endocarditis – Skin and soft tissue infections – Gynecological infections |
| Contraindications | – Hypersensitivity to Ampicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins) – History of severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to penicillins |
| Precautions | – Use with caution in patients with renal impairment or a history of allergies/asthma – May cause false-positive urine glucose tests – Monitor for superinfection with prolonged use |
| Drug Interactions | – May reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives – Allopurinol may increase the risk of rash – May interfere with methotrexate clearance (increased toxicity) |
| Storage | – Store capsules and suspension at room temperature (15–30°C) – Reconstituted suspension should be refrigerated and used within 7 days – Protect injection vials from excessive heat |
| Common Side Effects | – Diarrhea – Nausea or vomiting – Rash – Injection site pain (for IV/IM use) |
| Monitoring Parameters | Renal function, hepatic function, signs of hypersensitivity, CBC if prolonged therapy |
| Legal Status | Prescription Only |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Principen (Ampicillin) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or mild stomach discomfort
- Rash or itching
- Headache
- Black or hairy tongue
If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Principen (Ampicillin)?
You can order Principen (Ampicillin) using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.
