Ampicillin / Sulbactam
Ampicillin/Sulbactam is a combination antibiotic consisting of ampicillin, a penicillin-type antibacterial agent, and sulbactam, a beta-lactamase inhibitor. This combination is used to treat various bacterial infections by overcoming antibiotic resistance mechanisms. It is commonly prescribed for respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, intra-abdominal infections, and gynecological infections.
Ampicillin/Sulbactam is a combination antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections by combining a standard antibiotic with an enzyme inhibitor to overcome resistance.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1009148
- Generic
- Ampicillin / Sulbactam
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- Unasyn
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats respiratory tract infections (pneumonia, bronchitis), skin and soft tissue infections, intra-abdominal infections (peritonitis, cholecystitis), gynecological infections, and other susceptible bacterial infections caused by organisms that produce beta-lactamase enzymes.
Ampicillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, while sulbactam inhibits beta-lactamase enzymes produced by resistant bacteria, allowing ampicillin to be effective against organisms that would otherwise be resistant.
Requires a prescription; commonly administered intravenously or intramuscularly; patients with penicillin allergies should avoid this medication; may cause side effects including diarrhea, rash, and injection site reactions; full course should be completed as prescribed.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy