Ampicillin vs. Amoxicillin: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 30, 2023
Ampicillin and amoxicillin are both antibiotics, but amoxicillin has a broader spectrum of activity and is more acid stable.
Key Differences
Ampicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that is used to treat a range of bacterial infections. It is effective against Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria. Amoxicillin, on the other hand, is a more modern antibiotic that belongs to the same class but is more effective against a broader range of bacteria and is more acid stable, making it a more versatile drug.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Ampicillin and amoxicillin are both used to treat bacterial infections, but amoxicillin is often preferred because it can be taken with or without food and has fewer side effects. Additionally, amoxicillin is absorbed better from the gastrointestinal tract than ampicillin.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Ampicillin and amoxicillin are both part of the penicillin family of antibiotics. They work by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, thus killing the bacteria. However, amoxicillin is often preferred over ampicillin because it is more effective against a wider range of bacteria and is better absorbed by the body.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Ampicillin is a good option for treating infections caused by susceptible bacteria, but amoxicillin is often preferred for its broader spectrum of activity and better absorption. Both drugs should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional to ensure the infection is completely treated.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Food Interaction
Should be taken on an empty stomach
Can be taken with or without food
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Ampicillin and Amoxicillin Definitions
Ampicillin
Ampicillin is effective against Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria.
Ampicillin can be used to treat infections caused by susceptible strains of E. coli.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
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Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed for ear infections in children.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 30, 2023
Ampicillin
Ampicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic.
Ampicillin is often used to treat urinary tract infections.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 30, 2023
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Amoxicillin is a popular choice for treating respiratory tract infections.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Ampicillin
Ampicillin should be taken on an empty stomach.
It is recommended to take ampicillin at least one hour before or two hours after meals.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is available in various forms, including oral and injectable.
Amoxicillin is often prescribed in a liquid form for children.
Janet White
Oct 30, 2023
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Ampicillin
Ampicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Ampicillin is a common choice for treating mild to moderate bacterial infections.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is more acid stable than ampicillin.
Amoxicillin can be taken with or without food.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Ampicillin
Ampicillin is available in various forms, including oral and injectable.
For severe infections, ampicillin can be given intravenously.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 30, 2023
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin has fewer side effects than ampicillin.
Amoxicillin is generally well-tolerated by most people.
Janet White
Oct 30, 2023
FAQs
What are the side effects of ampicillin?
Common side effects of ampicillin include rash, diarrhea, and nausea.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
What is amoxicillin used to treat?
Amoxicillin is used to treat a broad range of bacterial infections.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 30, 2023
What are the side effects of amoxicillin?
Common side effects of amoxicillin include rash, diarrhea, and nausea.
Janet White
Oct 30, 2023
Can ampicillin cause a rash?
Yes, a rash is a common side effect of ampicillin.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Is amoxicillin more acid stable than ampicillin?
Yes, amoxicillin is more acid stable than ampicillin.
Sara Rehman
Oct 30, 2023
Is ampicillin effective against Gram-negative bacteria?
Ampicillin is effective against some Gram-negative bacteria.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Can amoxicillin be used to treat urinary tract infections?
Yes, amoxicillin can be used to treat urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
Janet White
Oct 30, 2023
Is amoxicillin available in a liquid form for children?
Yes, amoxicillin is often prescribed in a liquid form for children.
Harlon Moss
Oct 30, 2023
What is the mechanism of action of ampicillin?
Ampicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
What is the mechanism of action of amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Is amoxicillin a broad-spectrum antibiotic?
Yes, amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Can ampicillin be given intravenously?
Yes, for severe infections, ampicillin can be given intravenously.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 30, 2023
What is ampicillin used to treat?
Ampicillin is used to treat a range of bacterial infections.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Is ampicillin a broad-spectrum antibiotic?
No, ampicillin has a narrower spectrum of activity than amoxicillin.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
Can ampicillin be used to treat respiratory tract infections?
Yes, ampicillin can be used to treat respiratory tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
Harlon Moss
Oct 30, 2023
Is ampicillin available in an injectable form?
Yes, ampicillin is available in both oral and injectable forms.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 30, 2023
Can amoxicillin cause a rash?
Yes, a rash is a common side effect of amoxicillin.
Sara Rehman
Oct 30, 2023
Are ampicillin and amoxicillin part of the same class of antibiotics?
Yes, both ampicillin and amoxicillin are beta-lactam antibiotics.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
