ampicillin is a classic penicillin‑type antibiotic that fights many kinds of bacteria. Doctors often write it for ear infections, strep throat, urinary tract infections, and some types of pneumonia. If you’ve ever been told to take a "penicillin" and wondered exactly what that means, ampicillin is one of the most common options.
The drug works by stopping bacteria from building their cell walls, which makes them burst open and die. Because it targets a wide range of bugs, doctors use it for both mild and moderate infections. For example, if you get a sudden sore throat that’s actually strep, ampicillin can clear it up in about a week.
It comes in three main forms: capsules, liquid suspension, and injectable solution. Kids usually get the liquid because it’s easier to swallow, while adults often prefer the capsule. The injectable version is reserved for hospitals or when you need a fast hit, like before surgery.
Typical adult doses are 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours, but your doctor will set the exact amount based on the infection type and your kidney function. Kids get a dose calculated by weight – usually around 25‑50 mg per kilogram each day, split into several doses.
Most people tolerate ampicillin well. The most common side effects are mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or a rash. If you notice severe itching, swelling, trouble breathing, or a high fever, stop the drug and call a doctor right away – those could be signs of an allergic reaction.
When looking to buy ampicillin online, stick to pharmacies that require a prescription and have clear contact info, a physical address in Canada, and good customer reviews. Avoid sites that offer “no‑prescription” sales or unbelievably low prices; they’re often scams or may sell counterfeit pills.
To protect yourself, check if the pharmacy is licensed by Health Canada, read their privacy policy, and make sure they use secure (https) checkout. A quick phone call to confirm that a real pharmacist will review your prescription can also save headaches later.
If you already have a prescription, compare prices from a few reputable online pharmacies before buying. Some sites even let you upload the doctor’s note and get a price quote within minutes.
Remember, finishing the full course of ampicillin is crucial even if you feel better after a couple of days. Stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant, making future infections harder to treat.
Need more help? Check out our articles on safe online pharmacy tips, how to spot fake meds, and alternatives for people allergic to penicillins. We keep the info simple so you can make smart choices without a medical degree.
