Does Ampicillin Cause Liver Damage?

Ampicillin is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, sinusitis, and bronchitis. It has been used since the 1950s and is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. While ampicillin is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause some side effects, including liver damage.

What Is Ampicillin?

Ampicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. The drug is usually taken orally, but in some cases, it can be given intravenously (through an IV). It's typically used to treat many different types of infections, including:

• Urinary tract infections
• Bronchitis
• Sinusitis
• Ear infections
• Skin infections
• Gonorrhea

Ampicillin is available in generic form and as brand-name drugs, including Amoxil and Principen. It’s also available as a combination drug with other antibiotics, such as Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Bactrim).

Can Ampicillin Cause Liver Damage?

In rare cases, ampicillin can cause liver damage. This is usually seen in people with an existing liver condition or those taking other medications that can affect the liver. Symptoms of liver damage include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach pain
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

If you experience these symptoms while taking ampicillin, call your doctor right away. They may need to adjust your treatment or monitor your liver function more closely.

How to Reduce the Risk of Liver Damage

There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of liver damage when taking ampicillin:

• Make sure your doctor knows about any other medications you’re taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as supplements.
• Let your doctor know if you have any existing liver problems or if you’ve had hepatitis or other liver diseases in the past.
• Take ampicillin exactly as prescribed. Don’t take more or less than your doctor recommends.
• Don’t take ampicillin for longer than necessary to treat your infection.
• Be sure to finish your entire course of treatment, even if you start feeling better.
• Tell your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms of liver damage listed above.

If you have any questions or concerns about taking ampicillin, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if this is the right treatment for your infection and assess your risk of developing liver damage.

We also recommend that you read: What should I avoid while taking metronidazole