What does Ampicillin do to bacteria

Ampicillin is an antibiotic that is similar to penicillin and has wide ranging uses when it comes to fighting infections. It must be kept in mind that Ampicillin is highly effective when it comes to treating infections caused by bacteria, but is virtually ineffective for treating viral infections. How does it work? The key behind fighting any infection is to first prevent it spreading further. Once the growth is brought under control, it becomes so much easier to fight the infected cells.

So how much Ampicillin should you take? As the case is with all antibiotics, dosage is of paramount importance and hence, it is highly recommended that you consult a doctor or medical professional before starting with a dose. Also, you need to tell your doctor of any penicillin related allergies that you may have. Ideally, a doctor studies the entire past medical history and current medications before they prescribe any antibiotic, including Ampicillin.

Does Ampicillin cause any side effects? Anyone who has taken any antibiotic for infections will know that they cause mild to serious side effects depending on the severity of infection, dosage and physical condition of the patient. Always remember to strictly adhere to the dosage prescribed by the doctor. Do not reduce / increase it depending on the condition of the infection.

Effect of Ampicillin on bacteria

Many studies have been conducted to study the effect Ampicillin has on bacteria. It has been clearly established that antibiotic Ampicillin can cure most bacterial infections, including those caused by Escherichia Coli. However, the underlying mechanism behind this effect is not fully understood and studies in this direction are progressing. So all we have now are conjectures and possibilities. Maybe the results are quite obvious. Antibiotics work by targeting the infected cells, cutting off energy supply to them completely and eventually resulting in its death.

Other studies have shown that there may be inactive ingredients within Ampicillin which gets activated when it comes in contact with a bacterial infection. This may explain why it is so highly effective against bacteria and has least effect on viral infections. At this point of time, the exact effect this antibiotic has on the body is restricted to its action against bacteria. Maybe with more advanced results, a clear picture may evolve, but till then, we have to be content with what we know.