Who Should Not Take Ampicillin?
Ampicillin is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to a group of antibiotics called penicillins and works by stopping the growth of bacteria. While ampicillin is generally safe and well-tolerated, it is not suitable for everyone and there are certain people who should not take it.
Allergy
People with a known allergy to penicillin or any other type of antibiotic should not take ampicillin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. It is very important to tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to any type of medication in the past.
Pregnancy
Ampicillin is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may cause harm to a developing fetus. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication.
Breastfeeding
Ampicillin is not recommended for use while breastfeeding due to the risk of passing the medication to the baby through breast milk. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication while breastfeeding.
Other Medications
Ampicillin may interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications that may interact with ampicillin include:
- Probenecid
- Diuretics
- Chloramphenicol
- Sulfonamides
- Methotrexate
- Anticoagulants
- Cyclosporine
Conclusion
Ampicillin is a commonly used antibiotic for treating bacterial infections. However, it is not suitable for everyone and there are certain people who should not take ampicillin, including those with a known allergy to penicillins or any other type of antibiotic, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those taking certain other medications. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking ampicillin.
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