Ampicillin vs. Amoxicillin: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || 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.
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.
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.
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.
Comparison Chart
Spectrum of Activity
Narrower
Broader
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Acid Stability
Less acid stable
More acid stable
Side Effects
More side effects
Fewer side effects
Absorption
Less well absorbed
Better absorbed
Food Interaction
Should be taken on an empty stomach
Can be taken with or without food
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.
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Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed for ear infections in children.
Ampicillin
Ampicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic.
Ampicillin is often used to treat urinary tract infections.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Amoxicillin is a popular choice for treating respiratory tract infections.
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.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is available in various forms, including oral and injectable.
Amoxicillin is often prescribed in a liquid form for children.
Ampicillin
Ampicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Ampicillin is a common choice for treating mild to moderate bacterial infections.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is more acid stable than ampicillin.
Amoxicillin can be taken with or without food.
Ampicillin
Ampicillin is available in various forms, including oral and injectable.
For severe infections, ampicillin can be given intravenously.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin has fewer side effects than ampicillin.
Amoxicillin is generally well-tolerated by most people.
FAQs
How is ampicillin taken?
Ampicillin should be taken on an empty stomach.
What are the side effects of ampicillin?
Common side effects of ampicillin include rash, diarrhea, and nausea.
What is amoxicillin used to treat?
Amoxicillin is used to treat a broad range of bacterial infections.
What are the side effects of amoxicillin?
Common side effects of amoxicillin include rash, diarrhea, and nausea.
Can ampicillin cause a rash?
Yes, a rash is a common side effect of ampicillin.
Is amoxicillin more acid stable than ampicillin?
Yes, amoxicillin is more acid stable than ampicillin.
Is ampicillin effective against Gram-negative bacteria?
Ampicillin is effective against some Gram-negative bacteria.
Can amoxicillin be used to treat urinary tract infections?
Yes, amoxicillin can be used to treat urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
Is amoxicillin available in a liquid form for children?
Yes, amoxicillin is often prescribed in a liquid form for children.
What is the mechanism of action of ampicillin?
Ampicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
What is the mechanism of action of amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
How is amoxicillin taken?
Amoxicillin can be taken with or without food.
Is amoxicillin a broad-spectrum antibiotic?
Yes, amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Can ampicillin be given intravenously?
Yes, for severe infections, ampicillin can be given intravenously.
What is ampicillin used to treat?
Ampicillin is used to treat a range of bacterial infections.
Is ampicillin a broad-spectrum antibiotic?
No, ampicillin has a narrower spectrum of activity than amoxicillin.
Can ampicillin be used to treat respiratory tract infections?
Yes, ampicillin can be used to treat respiratory tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
Is ampicillin available in an injectable form?
Yes, ampicillin is available in both oral and injectable forms.
Can amoxicillin cause a rash?
Yes, a rash is a common side effect of amoxicillin.
Are ampicillin and amoxicillin part of the same class of antibiotics?
Yes, both ampicillin and amoxicillin are beta-lactam antibiotics.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
