What to Avoid When Taking Ampicillin

Ampicillin is a common antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. While it is a highly effective treatment, there are certain precautions to take when taking ampicillin to ensure that the medication works properly and that adverse side effects are minimized. Here are some things to avoid when taking ampicillin.

Avoiding Alcohol

Alcohol should be avoided when taking ampicillin due to possible interactions between the two substances. Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of the antibiotic and can cause adverse side effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headaches.

Avoiding Other Medications

Certain other medications should not be taken in combination with ampicillin. These include anticoagulants, certain seizure medications, tetracyclines, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all of the medications you are taking before beginning ampicillin treatment.

Avoiding Certain Foods

Certain foods should be avoided while taking ampicillin to minimize the risk of adverse side effects. Dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese, should be avoided while taking ampicillin since they can reduce the absorption of the medication. It is also important to avoid foods high in calcium and iron since these can also reduce absorption of the antibiotic.

Avoiding Sun Exposure

Excessive sun exposure should be avoided when taking ampicillin due to the risk of photosensitivity. Photosensitivity is a condition in which the skin is more susceptible to sunburns and rashes when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. The risk of photosensitivity is increased when taking ampicillin, so it is important to limit sun exposure and always wear sunscreen when going outside.

Conclusion

Ampicillin is an effective antibiotic for treating many bacterial infections. However, it is important to take certain precautions when taking ampicillin to ensure that it works properly and to minimize adverse side effects. Avoiding alcohol, other medications, certain foods, and excessive sun exposure can help to ensure that ampicillin treatment is successful.

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