Welcome to our blog post about Ampiclox, a powerful antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections. In this article, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to know about Ampiclox, including its composition, indications, dosage, precautions, and more. So let’s dive in and explore this important medication together!

Composition

Ampiclox contains two active ingredients: Ampicillin sodium trihydrate and Cloxacillin sodium monohydrate. It is available in different formulations, including capsules, oral suspension, syrup, and injections. The composition of each formulation is as follows:

Capsules: Ampiclox capsules come in two strengths:
250 mg: Contains 125 mg of Ampicillin and 125 mg of Cloxacillin.
500 mg: Contains 250 mg of Ampicillin and 250 mg of Cloxacillin.
Oral Suspension: Ampiclox is also available in a dry powder suspension form, which needs to be reconstituted before use. The concentration of the suspension is as follows:
90 mg/0.6 ml: Contains 60 mg of Ampicillin and 30 mg of Cloxacillin.
Syrup: The syrup form of Ampiclox is available in two concentrations:
250 mg/5 ml: Contains 125 mg of Ampicillin and 125 mg of Cloxacillin.
500 mg/5 ml: Contains 250 mg of Ampicillin and 250 mg of Cloxacillin.
Injections: Ampiclox injections are available in vials with different strengths:
75 mg: Contains 50 mg of Ampicillin and 25 mg of Cloxacillin.
250 mg: Contains 125 mg of Ampicillin and 125 mg of Cloxacillin.
500 mg: Contains 250 mg of Ampicillin and 250 mg of Cloxacillin.

Indications

Ampiclox is primarily used for the treatment of severe bacterial infections. It is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Some common indications for Ampiclox include:

Post-operative wound infections
Post-operative pulmonary infections
Acute post-operative enterocolitis
Intra-abdominal abscesses as a complication of operations
Respiratory infections such as bronchopneumonia and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
Obstetric infections like septic abortion and puerperal fever
Other infections, including septicaemia, bone infections (e.g., osteomyelitis), and urgent treatment for E.N.T. infections.

Ampiclox neonatal suspension and injection are specifically indicated for the prophylaxis or treatment of bacterial infections in premature babies or neonates.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Ampiclox may vary depending on the age, condition, and severity of the infection. Here are some general dosage guidelines:

Adults and Elderly: The usual oral dose is 0.5 to 1 gram every 6 hours. For intramuscular or intravenous injections, the recommended dose is 500 mg to 1 gram every 4 to 6 hours.
Children (1 to 12 years):
- Oral: Half the adult dose (5 to 10 ml of syrup) every 6 hours or 250 mg every 8 hours.
Neonates (up to 2 years):
- Oral suspension: 6 ml (90 mg) of reconstituted suspension every 4 hours, administered 0.5 to 1 hour before feeding.
- Injection: One-quarter of the adult dose (75 mg) every 8 hours.
Renal Impairment: In cases of renal failure, the dosage should be adjusted based on the patient’s creatinine clearance. The dose may be reduced or adapted according to the severity of impairment.
Hepatic Impairment: The dosage should be adjusted depending on the severity of the hepatic condition. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended in such cases.

It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Mode of Administration

Ampiclox is available in various forms for administration, including capsules, oral suspension, and injections. Here are some important considerations for each form:

Capsules: Ampiclox capsules should be taken orally, preferably 0.5 to 1 hour before meals.
Oral Suspension: The suspension should be prepared by adding distilled water to the powder and shaking it well before use. Shake the reconstituted mixture thoroughly before each administration.
Injections: Ampiclox injections can be given either intravenously or intramuscularly. Intravenous injections should be administered slowly over 3 to 4 minutes. The injections can also be added to infusion fluids or suitably diluted and injected into the vein over 3 to 4 minutes.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or refer to the product packaging for specific administration guidelines.

Precautions and Warnings

While Ampiclox is generally safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of certain precautions and warnings associated with its use. Here are some key points to consider:

Hypersensitivity: Ampiclox should not be given to patients with a history of hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins or cephalosporins, or any of the excipients in the medication. If any allergic reaction occurs, the treatment should be discontinued immediately.
Infectious Mononucleosis and Leukemia: Ampiclox should be avoided if there is suspicion of infectious mononucleosis or acute/chronic leukemia of lymphoid origin, as it may lead to a skin rash.
Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustments may be required for patients with renal impairment. The dosage should be adapted based on the patient’s creatinine clearance.
Hepatic Impairment: The dosage of Ampiclox may need to be reduced in patients with severe liver conditions. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended in such cases.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Adequate human data on the use of Ampiclox during pregnancy and lactation are limited. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential before using Ampiclox in these situations.

It’s important to discuss your medical history, allergies, and any medications you are currently taking with your healthcare provider before starting Ampiclox.

Adverse Reactions

As with any medication, Ampiclox may cause certain adverse reactions. Here are some common and rare side effects associated with its use:

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Very rare cases of hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and eosinophilia have been reported.
Immune System Disorders: Very rare cases of anaphylaxis and other hypersensitivity reactions, such as skin rash and urticaria, have been reported.
Nervous System Disorders: Very rare cases of myoclonus (muscle twitches) and convulsions have been reported.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Common side effects include diarrhea and nausea. Uncommon side effects include vomiting. Very rare cases of

pseudomembranous colitis and hemorrhagic colitis have been reported.

Hepatobiliary Disorders: Very rare cases of hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, and transient increase in transaminases have been reported.
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Common side effects include skin rash, urticaria (hives), and pruritus (itching). Very rare cases of bullous reactions (such as erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis), exfoliative dermatitis, and purpura have been reported.
Renal and Urinary Disorders: Very rare cases of interstitial nephritis (inflammation of the kidney) have been reported.

If you experience any adverse reactions or allergic symptoms while taking Ampiclox, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Drug Interactions

Ampiclox may interact with other medications, altering their effects or increasing the risk of side effects. Some notable drug interactions include:

Probenecid: Concurrent use of Ampiclox with probenecid may result in increased and prolonged blood levels of Ampiclox.
Oral Contraceptives: Ampiclox may affect the gut flora, leading to reduced efficacy of combined oral contraceptives. Additional contraceptive methods may be required during Ampiclox treatment.
Sulphonamides and Acetylsalicylic Acid: These medications may inhibit the protein binding of Cloxacillin, potentially increasing its levels in the blood.
Allopurinol: Concurrent use of Allopurinol with Ampiclox can increase the likelihood of allergic skin reactions.

It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Ampiclox to avoid any potential drug interactions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ampiclox is a powerful antibiotic used for the treatment of severe bacterial infections. It contains two active ingredients, Ampicillin, and Cloxacillin, which work together to combat a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ampiclox is available in different formulations, including capsules, oral suspension, syrup, and injections, making it convenient for various age groups and conditions.

While Ampiclox is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. Adverse reactions are possible, and in case of any unusual symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, this article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about Ampiclox or your specific health condition, consult with your healthcare provider. Stay informed, stay healthy!