ampilox capsule - Ampicillin (250mg) + Dicloxacillin (250mg) medicine

Ampilox Capsule: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Biochem Pharmaceutical Industries 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for susceptible bacterial infections.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Severe or persistent diarrhea, or diarrhea with blood or mucus
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs
  • Seizures or confusion
  • High fever that does not improve after 48 hours of treatment

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is ampilox capsule used for?

This medicine is a combination antibiotic containing ampicillin and dicloxacillin, used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It works by killing bacteria that cause infections. It is available only by prescription and should be taken exactly as directed.

  • Generic Name: Ampicillin + Dicloxacillin
  • Manufacturer: Biochem Pharmaceutical Industries
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 ampilox capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एम्पीसिलिन और डाइक्लोक्सासिलिन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग विभिन्न जीवाणु संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह त्वचा, श्वसन पथ, हड्डियों और जोड़ों के संक्रमण में प्रभावी है। यह केवल डॉक्टर के पर्चे पर ही मिलती है और पूरा कोर्स करना आवश्यक है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट दर्द और त्वचा पर चकत्ते शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, गंभीर दस्त, या यकृत की समस्या हो सकती है। किसी भी गंभीर लक्षण पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं और एलर्जी के बारे में बताएं। इसे भोजन के साथ लें। पूरा कोर्स पूरा करें। खुराक न बदलें। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। शराब से बचें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 ampilox capsule Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Skin and soft tissue infections","description":"This medicine is used to treat infections of the skin and underlying tissues caused by susceptible bacteria, including cellulitis, abscesses, and wound infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Respiratory tract infections","description":"It may be prescribed for upper and lower respiratory tract infections such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, and community-acquired pneumonia when caused by susceptible organisms.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bone and joint infections","description":"This combination can be used in the treatment of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis caused by susceptible gram-positive bacteria.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"It may be used for urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria, although other antibiotics are often preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Dental infections","description":"Sometimes prescribed for dental abscesses or prophylaxis in dental procedures, though not specifically approved for this indication.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Eradication of Helicobacter pylori","description":"Ampicillin component may be used in some combination regimens for H. pylori eradication, but not as a standard first-line therapy.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial infections

Also treats: Skin infections, Respiratory infections, Bone infections, Urinary tract infections

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Ampicillin + Dicloxacillin
Brand NameAmpilox Capsule
ManufacturerBiochem Pharmaceutical Industries
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassPenicillin Antibiotics
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture and heat. Keep in the original container.
Shelf LifeTypically 24 months from the date of manufacture, but check the expiration date on the packaging.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always take this medicine with food to enhance absorption and reduce stomach upset.
2
Complete the full prescribed course even if you start feeling better after a few days.
3
Do not share this medicine with others, as it may not be appropriate for their condition.
4
Inform your doctor if you develop a rash, severe diarrhea, or any signs of an allergic reaction.
5
If you are on oral contraceptives, use an additional barrier method during treatment and for 7 days after.
6
Stay well hydrated while taking this medicine to help your kidneys flush out the drug.
7
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of stomach upset and liver effects.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Skin infection with redness and swelling
This medicine is commonly prescribed for skin and soft tissue infections.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer; it treats the underlying bacterial infection.
Not Primary
Cough with yellow sputum
May be used for respiratory tract infections if bacterial in origin.
Likely Use

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionAmpicillin and dicloxacillin are both absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Ampicillin absorption is somewhat reduced by food, while dicloxacillin absorption is enhanced by food. The combination is formulated to provide adequate systemic levels of both components.
DistributionBoth ampicillin and dicloxacillin distribute widely into body tissues and fluids, including skin, soft tissues, and bone. Dicloxacillin is highly protein-bound, which limits its distribution to some extent, but it still achieves therapeutic concentrations in many target sites.
Protein BindingAmpicillin is approximately 20% protein-bound, while dicloxacillin is about 95-99% protein-bound to serum albumin.
MetabolismAmpicillin is minimally metabolized in the liver, with a small fraction converted to inactive penicilloic acid. Dicloxacillin is partially metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of ampicillin is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, and that of dicloxacillin is about 0.5 to 0.9 hours in individuals with normal renal function.
ExcretionBoth ampicillin and dicloxacillin are primarily excreted unchanged in the urine via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. A small amount is excreted in bile and feces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of ampicillin is about 30-55% and that of dicloxacillin is about 35-76%. Food can affect the absorption of both components differently.
Onset of ActionThe onset of antibacterial action begins within 1-2 hours after oral administration, once the drug reaches sufficient concentrations at the site of infection.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations for ampicillin are reached about 1-2 hours after oral administration, and for dicloxacillin about 1-1.5 hours.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action depends on the dosing interval, typically 6 to 8 hours, and the susceptibility of the infecting organism. With usual dosing, antibacterial effects are maintained throughout the dosing period.

How It Works

This medicine contains two penicillin antibiotics that work by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Ampicillin and dicloxacillin both bind to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the bacterial cell membrane, which are enzymes involved in the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains in the cell wall. This inhibition weakens the cell wall, leading to osmotic lysis and death of the bacteria. Ampicillin has a broader spectrum of activity, including some gram-negative bacteria, while dicloxacillin is resistant to penicillinase enzymes produced by certain staphylococci, allowing it to be effective against those strains.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to penicillin-binding proteins: Ampicillin and dicloxacillin bind to specific penicillin-binding proteins located in the bacterial cell membrane.
2
Inhibition of cell wall cross-linking: This binding inhibits the transpeptidase activity required for cross-linking peptidoglycan chains, which are essential for cell wall strength.
3
Activation of autolysins: The inhibition leads to activation of bacterial autolytic enzymes that further degrade the cell wall.
4
Bacterial cell lysis: The weakened cell wall cannot withstand osmotic pressure, causing the bacterium to swell and burst, resulting in cell death.

💡 How to Take ampilox capsule

Strength: Capsule containing ampicillin 250 mg and dicloxacillin 250 mg.

1Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water.
2Take with food to reduce stomach upset and enhance absorption of dicloxacillin.
3Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush or chew.
4Take at evenly spaced intervals as prescribed by your doctor.
5Complete the full course of therapy, even if you feel better after a few days.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is one capsule (250 mg ampicillin + 250 mg dicloxacillin) taken orally every 6 hours, but the exact dose and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's renal and hepatic function. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced renal function, which can increase the risk of side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a doctor.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, dose reduction or extended dosing intervals may be required. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on creatinine clearance.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dosage adjustments are established for hepatic impairment, but caution is advised. Monitor liver function.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is not established from the available information. Follow your doctor's prescription.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and enhances absorption of dicloxacillin.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May affect drug metabolism, though specific interaction is not well established.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of ampilox capsule

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or contains blood, contact your doctor immediately.
Skin rash (Common (1-5%))
If rash is mild, monitor. If it spreads or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice.
Vomiting (Common (1-5%))
Take with food and small sips of water. If vomiting is persistent, consult your doctor.
Stomach pain (Common (1-5%))
Take with food. If pain is severe or persistent, seek medical attention.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Anaphylaxis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor if you develop severe or persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or fever.
Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice a painful rash, blistering, or peeling skin.
Hepatotoxicity (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain to your doctor promptly.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Interstitial nephritis
Seek medical attention if you experience decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue.
Blood dyscrasias (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)
Report unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection, to your doctor.
Neurotoxicity (e.g., seizures)
Seek immediate medical help if you experience confusion, tremors, or seizures.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Methotrexate Major
Allopurinol Moderate
Oral contraceptives Moderate
Tetracyclines Moderate
Aminoglycosides Moderate
Probenecid Minor
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Methotrexate
  • Allopurinol

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Oral contraceptives
  • Tetracyclines
  • Aminoglycosides

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach upset and liver effects. It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to penicillins or cephalosporins","History of severe allergic reaction to any beta-lactam antibiotic","Infectious mononucleosis (increased risk of rash)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity reactions have been reported. Before starting therapy, inquire about previous hypersensitivity to penicillins, cephalosporins, or other allergens.","Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea may occur. If diarrhea develops, evaluate for this condition.","Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be necessary.","Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.","May interfere with certain laboratory tests, such as urine glucose tests and serum protein tests."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Ampicillin and dicloxacillin are excreted in breast milk in small amounts. They are generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for diarrhea or thrush. Consult your doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalances. In severe cases, neuromuscular excitability or seizures may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis may be considered to remove ampicillin from the blood in severe cases. Contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately if overdose is suspected.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you are allergic to penicillins, cephalosporins, or any other medications. Also, tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially kidney or liver disease, asthma, or a history of allergies. This medicine may interact with other drugs, including allopurinol, methotrexate, oral contraceptives, and warfarin, so provide a complete list of your medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without your doctor's approval. Take this medicine with a full glass of water, with or without food, but preferably with food if it upsets your stomach. Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better, to prevent resistance. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced renal function, which can increase the risk of side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Monitor renal function and watch for signs of toxicity.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It is generally considered safe in pregnancy (Category B), but use only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be prescribed after surgery to prevent or treat surgical site infections. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine may be used for dental infections or as prophylaxis before dental procedures in certain patients. Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support your immune system.
🥗
Stay well hydrated to help your body flush out the infection and the medicine.
😴
Get plenty of rest to aid recovery.
💧
Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.
🧘
Avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors if you have a skin infection.
🌞
Follow up with your doctor if symptoms do not improve.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While taking this medicine, you can continue light exercises if you feel well. However, if you experience dizziness, fatigue, or muscle pain, avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to help maintain gut health.
Eat a balanced diet with adequate protein to support healing.
Avoid spicy and greasy foods if you have stomach upset.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Otherwise, you can continue your normal daily activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to recurrence of infection and antibiotic resistance. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi, and may increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. Prolonged therapy may also affect liver and kidney function. Regular monitoring may be required if used for extended periods.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Amoxicillin-clavulanate

Another antibiotic combination that may be used for similar infections.

Evidence: Well-established
Cephalexin

A cephalosporin antibiotic that may be an alternative for skin infections.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine may reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines like typhoid vaccine. Consult your doctor about vaccination timing.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually, but consult your doctor for specific advice. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man with a skin infection on his leg
He was prescribed this medicine for cellulitis. He took it with food as directed and completed the 10-day course. His infection cleared up within a week, and he experienced only mild nausea that went away after the first few doses.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food helps reduce stomach upset and ensures better absorption.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with a dental abscess
She was given this medicine after a dental procedure. She initially forgot a dose but remembered to take it as soon as she could. She completed the course and her infection resolved. She advises setting a reminder to avoid missing doses.
💡 Lesson: Adherence to the dosing schedule is crucial for effective treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 1-2 days, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, it is recommended to take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset and improve absorption.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: It is categorized as Pregnancy Category B. Consult your doctor before use, as the benefits must outweigh the risks.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine when I feel better?

A: No, you must complete the full course to prevent the infection from returning and to avoid antibiotic resistance.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for ampilox capsule

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Antibiotics can cure viral infections like the flu.
    Fact: This medicine is only effective against bacterial infections. It does not treat viral infections.
  • Myth: You can stop taking antibiotics once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning and to avoid antibiotic resistance.
  • Myth: Antibiotics are safe to take without a prescription.
    Fact: This medicine is a prescription drug and should only be taken under a doctor's supervision.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Ampicillin and dicloxacillin combination (generic)
  • Ampicillin alone
  • Dicloxacillin alone

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Ampicillin + Dicloxacillin","uses":"Broad-spectrum with penicillinase-resistant coverage","notes":"Combination for mixed infections"},{"medicine":"Amoxicillin-clavulanate","composition":"Amoxicillin + Clavulanic acid","uses":"Broad-spectrum including beta-lactamase producers","notes":"Different spectrum and resistance profile"},{"medicine":"Cloxacillin","composition":"Cloxacillin","uses":"Penicillinase-resistant penicillin for staphylococcal infections","notes":"Narrower spectrum"}]

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