Drug Mechanism: How does Ampicillin work?

Ampicillin is one of the most widely prescribed antibiotics.

It is considered a penicillin and is a close relative of another penicillin, amoxicillin. Unlike penicillin, ampicillin and amoxicillin can penetrate and prevent the growth of certain types of bacteria, called gram-negative bacteria.

Ampicillin is used mainly to treat infections of the middle ear, sinuses, bladder, kidney, and uncomplicated gonorrhea. Ampicillin also is used intravenously to treat meningitis and other serious infections.

Ampicillin was approved by the FDA in 1963.