The parent of an infant with otitis media asks the nurse why the prescriber has ordered amoxicillin [Amoxil] and not ampicillin [Unasyn]. What will the nurse tell the parent?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Amoxicillin and ampicillin are similar in structure and actions but differ primarily in acid stability. Amoxicillin is more acid stable and, when administered orally, results in higher blood levels than can be obtained with equivalent doses of ampicillin. The two drugs have the same spectrum, both are inactivated by beta-lactamases, and both can cause allergic reactions.

The Parent of an Infant with Otitis Media Asks the Nurse