Ampicillin

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Ampicillin

Ampicillin (pronounced am-pi-SILL-in) is a penicillin type antibiotic used to treat various types of bacterial infections.

Etymology

The term "Ampicillin" is derived from the prefix "ampi-", from the Greek "amphi" meaning "on both sides", and "-cillin", from the Latin "cilium" meaning "eyelash". This is in reference to the drug's broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Usage

Ampicillin works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, leading to the death of the bacteria. It is used to treat a wide range of infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, meningitis, salmonellosis, and endocarditis.

Related Terms

  • Penicillin: A group of antibiotics that are often used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.
  • Antibiotic: A type of antimicrobial substance active against bacteria.
  • Bacterial infection: An infection caused by bacteria.
  • Respiratory tract infection: An infection that can occur in any part of the respiratory tract.
  • Urinary tract infection: An infection that affects part of the urinary tract.
  • Meningitis: An acute inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
  • Salmonellosis: An infection caused by Salmonella bacteria, most often spread by contaminated food or water.
  • Endocarditis: An inflammation of the inner layer of the heart, the endocardium.

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