Acillin

Description

Acillin is an antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin group of medications. It is primarily used to treat a variety of bacterial infections by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, effectively killing or preventing the growth of susceptible bacteria.

Uses / Indications

• Treatment of respiratory tract infections (such as pneumonia)
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Gastric ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori (part of combination therapy)
• Bone and joint infections
• Endocarditis (inflammation of the heart’s inner lining)

Dosage and Administration

Adults:
Typically, 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 to 8 hours, as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Children:
Dose is based on body weight and specific condition, usually around 20 to 40 mg/kg/day divided into doses. Consult a doctor for exact dosage.

Note: Dosage may vary based on the severity of the infection and individual patient factors.

How It Works (Mechanism of Action)

Acillin works by binding to specific proteins in bacterial cell membranes, inhibiting the synthesis of peptidoglycan, which is an essential component of the bacterial cell wall. This leads to cell lysis and death, effectively treating the infection.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash or itching
• Mild abdominal pain

Rare/serious side effects:

• Severe allergic reactions (swelling, breathing difficulties)
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD)
• Liver dysfunction (jaundice, elevated liver enzymes)

Seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Precautions / Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergies to penicillin or cephalosporins.
• Caution is advised in patients with kidney issues.
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with your doctor.

Drug Interactions

May interact with:

• Anticoagulants (may enhance the effect)
• Probenecid (may increase Acillin levels)
• Other antibiotics (in certain situations, may alter their effects)
• Medications affecting liver enzymes

Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you’re taking.

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (20°C–25°C / 68°F–77°F)
• Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct light
• Keep out of reach of children

Missed Dose / Overdose

Missed a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.

Overdose symptoms:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Severe allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Confusion or convulsions (in extreme cases)

Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical help immediately.

Contraindications

• Allergic to penicillin or any component of Acillin
• Previous serious reaction to penicillin antibiotics

Brand Names / Alternatives

• Ampicillin
• Omnipen
• Principen
• Generic name: Ampicillin (Acillin is a brand name under which it is marketed)