FieldDx

Drug reference · Ampicillin

AmpicillinDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Cattle, Dogs and Horses.

What it is used for

Aminopenicillin class beta-lactam antibiotic. Susceptible Gram-positive and Gram-negative infections.

Dose by species

Dose10–20 mg/kg IV q6-8hDogs and Cats
Dose10–50 mg/kg IM q12-24hDogs
Dose10–20 mg/kg IM q12-24hCats
Dose6.6 mg/kg IM q6-8hHorses
Dose25–40 mg/kg q6-8hHorses
Dose4.4–11 mg/kg IM q24hCattle and Calves

Doses are shown as published, not averaged across sources. Enter the animal’s body weight in the interactive drug guide to calculate the amount.

How it works

Time-dependent bactericidal action; inhibits cell wall mucopeptide synthesis.

Do not use in

Known history of hypersensitivity to penicillins or cephalosporins.

Main adverse effects

Adverse effects of penicillin drugs are most commonly caused by drug allergy. This can range from acute anaphylaxis when administered IV to other signs of allergic reaction when other routes are used. When used for prophylaxis during surgery, ampicillin can be administered IV to anesthetized patients without affecting cardiovascular parameters. Diarrhea is possible when administered orally, especially with high doses.

Monitoring

Susceptibility testing: For testing for susceptibility, CLSI break point for sensitive organisms is #0.25 mcg/mL for staphylocicci, streptococci, and gram-negative bacilli. For canine urinary tract pathogens, use a break point of #8 mcg/mL. For cattle pathogens, use a break point of #0.25 mcg/mL.

Withdrawal

A withdrawal interval is stated for this drug. It depends on the formulation, route and dose, so read the exact wording in the interactive drug guide before treating a food animal.

Conditions it is used for

Streptococcus suis Infection of Young Pigs

Similar drugs

Amoxicillin Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Penicillin G Cefpodoxime Ceftiofur HCl

Source

Plumb (pp. 78, 167); Papich (pp. x, 17)

Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs, 4th Edition (p. 45)

Condensed and attributed, never reproduced whole. Open the full entry in the app.