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Novo-Ampicillin

(ampicillin)

In this factsheet:
• How does Novo-Ampicillin work? What will it do for me?
• How should I use Novo-Ampicillin?
• What form(s) does Novo-Ampicillin come in?
• Who should NOT take Novo-Ampicillin?
• What side effects are possible with Novo-Ampicillin?
• Are there any other precautions or warnings for Novo-Ampicillin?
• What other drugs could interact with Novo-Ampicillin?

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

What side effects are possible with Novo-Ampicillin?

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

Common (greater than 10%)

• diarrhea (mild)
• headache
• sore mouth or tongue
• vaginal itching and discharge (yeast or fungal infection) - talk to your doctor or pharmacist about ways to reduce the likelihood of this side effect
• white patches in the mouth and/or tongue

Up to 95% of people with mononucleosis who are given ampicillin will develop a rash.

Rare:

• nausea and vomiting
• abnormal liver or kidney changes
• changes in the levels of red or white blood cells
• severe skin reactions
• sore throat and fever

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Novo-Ampicillin?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Allergy: Allergic reactions to ampicillin are more common in people who have a history of hay fever, hives, and other allergies. Reactions may include symptoms such as itching, hives, congestion, nausea, cramping, or diarrhea. Although much less common, more severe allergic reactions may include shortness of breath and a choking sensation. If these symptoms are experienced after taking any type of antibiotic, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.

Those with a penicillin allergy should ensure that they have informed anyone involved with their medical care (e.g., doctor, pharmacist, nurse) and carry or wear easily accessible identification (such as a Medic Alert® bracelet) alerting caregivers to the fact that they are allergic to penicillin.

Some people are "sensitive" (mild rash, upset stomach, etc.) to penicillin while others are truly "allergic" (see symptoms above). As there may be times when it is most preferable to treat with penicillin (even if a person is "sensitive"), your doctor may test you to determine if you are truly allergic to this family of medications.

Sunburn: While taking ampicillin, avoid excessive exposure to sunlight, as ampicillin may make you more susceptible to sunburn.

Birth control: Birth control pills containing estrogen may not work properly if you take them at the same time as ampicillin. You should use a different or additional means of birth control while you are taking this medication. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about this.

What other drugs could interact with Novo-Ampicillin?

There may be an interaction between ampicillin and any of the following:

• allopurinol
• birth control pills containing estrogen
• estrogens
• warfarin

If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, decongestants, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

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