Ampicillin Anhydrous is a member of the β-lactam family and is similar in structure to penicillin.

TOKU-E offers five forms of Ampicillin:

• Ampicillin Anhydrous (A043)
• Ampicillin Sodium (A042)
• Ampicillin/Sulbactam (2:1) (A071)
• Ampicillin Trihydrate, USP (A009)
• Ampicillin Trihydrate, EP (A020)

Ampicillin Anhydrousis the most stable and pure form that TOKU-E offers. It is sparingly soluble in water and freely soluble in 1 N NH₄OH (50 mg/mL).

CAS Number

69-53-4

Molecular Formula

C₁₆H₁₉N₃O₄S

Molecular Weight

349.40

Mechanism of Action

Like all β-lactams, Ampicillin interferes with PBP (penicillin binding protein) activity otherwise involved in the final phase of peptidoglycan synthesis. PBP’s are enzymes which catalyze a pentaglycine crosslink between alanine and lysine residues. Without a pentaglycine crosslink, the integrity of the cell wall is severely compromised ultimately leading to cell lysis.

Storage Conditions

2-8°C

Tariff Code

2941.10.1000

Spectrum

Ampicillin targets Gram-negative, non ESBL (Extended Spectrum β-lactamase) bacteria including Staphylococcus and Streptococcus and medically important enteric pathogens such as Shigella and Salmonella. Interestingly, ampicillin has been found to be effective against certain β-lactam sensitive VRE or vancomycin resistant Enterococcus; a glycopeptide antibiotic resistant "superbug."