Uses

This combination antibiotic is used to treat a broad range of bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and urinary tract infections, providing coverage against both gram-positive organisms (including beta-lactamase-producing staphylococci) and gram-negative bacteria.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis) to penicillins or beta-lactam antibiotics. Use with caution in patients with known cephalosporin allergy.

Side effects

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, skin rash, and hypersensitivity reactions. Serious reactions include anaphylaxis, Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, and hepatotoxicity (especially with dicloxacillin).

Warnings

Serious and fatal hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis have been reported. Assess allergy history before administration. Use with caution in patients with mononucleosis (ampicillin frequently causes rash in these patients). Prolonged use may lead to superinfection.

How it works

Ampicillin is a broad-spectrum aminopenicillin that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). Dicloxacillin is a penicillinase-resistant penicillin that provides stability against staphylococcal beta-lactamase, extending the spectrum of the combination.

Storage

Store capsules at room temperature (15–25°C), away from moisture and light.