Ampicillin Dosage Guide for Sinus Infections
Got a sinus infection and your doctor mentioned ampicillin? You probably wonder how much you should take and for how long. Below is a straight‑forward rundown of the usual dose, timing, and safety points so you can stick to the plan without guessing.
Typical adult dosing
For most adults, doctors prescribe 250 mg to 500 mg of ampicillin every six hours. That adds up to three or four doses a day. The exact amount depends on how severe the infection is and whether you have any other health issues.
If your infection is mild, a lower dose like 250 mg might be enough. For tougher cases, doctors may bump it up to 500 mg each time. Treatment usually lasts 7‑10 days, but always follow what your prescriber says.
Kids and special groups
Children get a dose based on weight—typically 40‑50 mg per kilogram of body weight daily, split into doses every six hours. For example, a child weighing 20 kg might take about 800 mg total each day, divided into four doses.
People with kidney problems may need a lower dose because the drug leaves the body through the kidneys. If you have liver disease or are pregnant, let your doctor know; they’ll adjust the amount accordingly.
Never skip a dose hoping to feel better sooner. Skipping can let bacteria survive and become resistant, making future infections harder to treat.
How to take it right
Ampicillin works best when taken on an empty stomach—usually 30 minutes before meals or two hours after eating. If the medicine upsets your stomach, you can have a small snack but avoid dairy products like milk or cheese at the same time; they can lower how much of the drug gets absorbed.
Drink plenty of water while you’re on antibiotics. Staying hydrated helps your kidneys flush out waste and reduces the chance of side effects.
Side effects to watch
Common issues include mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or a rash. If you notice severe diarrhea, fever, or skin that looks like blisters, call your doctor right away—these could be signs of a serious reaction.
Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Signs include hives, swelling of the face or throat, and trouble breathing. Seek emergency care if any of these appear.
When to see a doctor again
If your sinus pain isn’t better after 3‑4 days, or if it gets worse, get back in touch with your healthcare provider. Sometimes the infection needs a different antibiotic.
Finish the full course even if you feel fine—stopping early can let hidden bacteria grow back and cause another infection later.
That’s the quick rundown on ampicillin dosing for sinus infections. Keep these pointers handy, stick to the schedule your doctor gave you, and you’ll give yourself the best shot at a smooth recovery.
