Description:

Amciclox Capsules (often listed as Amiclox [ECL] Capsules by Ernest Chemists Limited in Ghana) is a combination antibiotic containing ampicillin (a broad-spectrum penicillin) and cloxacillin (a penicillinase-resistant penicillin). It treats bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms, including mixed staphylococcal and streptococcal infections where beta-lactamase resistance may be present. Common indications include respiratory tract infections (e.g., tonsillitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia), skin and soft tissue infections, ear infections (otitis media), urinary tract infections, bone infections, and post-operative wound infections. It is a widely available, affordable prescription antibiotic in Ghanaian pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy, Beybee Pharmacy) for bacterial infections requiring oral penicillin therapy.

Prescription:

Prescription-only (requires a doctor’s prescription in Ghana; dispensed by pharmacies with Rx to confirm bacterial infection and appropriate use, avoiding misuse/resistance).

Therapeutic Category:

Broad-Spectrum Penicillin Antibiotic Combination (Beta-lactamase resistant; for mixed bacterial infections;  or similar for ampicillin + cloxacillin).

Active Ingredients/Composition: Each capsule typically contains:

• Ampicillin (as ampicillin trihydrate) – 250 mg
• Cloxacillin (as cloxacillin sodium) – 250 mg (500mg total antibiotic per capsule; 250mg/250mg combination). Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Magnesium stearate, talc, starch, gelatin capsule shell, and coloring agents. Capsules are often hard gelatin, colored (e.g., blue/white or similar).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Amciclox Capsules 250mg/250mg (standard strength; common pack sizes 10×10 = 100 capsules or smaller blisters like 1×10/2×10). Related variants: Amciclox Suspension (125mg/125mg per 5ml for children), Amciclox 500mg Capsules (higher dose if available), or other brands (e.g., Ampiclox by GSK). The queried capsules are the 250mg/250mg oral form.

Consume Type:

Oral – Capsule (swallow whole with water; do not crush/chew).

Directions/Usage:

Take as prescribed by a doctor (usually every 6–8 hours).

• Adults: Typically 1 capsule (500 mg total) every 6–8 hours (3–4 times daily).
• Children: Weight-based (e.g., 20–40 mg/kg/day divided every 6–8 hours; use suspension for accurate dosing).
• Take at start of meals to reduce stomach upset.
• Duration: Usually 5–10 days (complete full course even if symptoms improve).
• Drink plenty of water.

Common Side Effects: Common:

• Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
• Skin: Rash, itching (allergic reaction risk).
• Other: Candidiasis (thrush). Rare/serious (seek immediate help): Severe diarrhea (C. difficile), allergic reactions (hives, swelling, anaphylaxis), liver issues (jaundice), or blood disorders.

Package Type:

Blister packs (commonly 10 capsules per strip, packs of 10×10 = 100 capsules or smaller like 1×10/2×10; foil blisters in carton with leaflet).

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep in original packaging, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Only for bacterial infections (ineffective against viruses).
• Contraindicated if allergic to penicillins/cephalosporins or ingredients.
• Caution in renal impairment (dose adjustment), history of colitis, or infectious mononucleosis (higher rash risk).
• Inform doctor if pregnant/breastfeeding (generally safe but confirm), or on anticoagulants (may increase bleeding risk).
• If severe rash, breathing difficulty, or persistent diarrhea occurs, stop and seek urgent care.
• Complete course to prevent resistance; probiotics may help prevent diarrhea.

Product Substitutes: Similar ampicillin + cloxacillin capsules in Ghana include:

• Ampiclox (GSK/Ernest Chemists brand, same 250mg/250mg combo).
• Generic ampicillin/cloxacillin 250mg/250mg capsules (various importers).
• Other brands like Amclox, Cloxamox, or local generics. Alternatives: Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin generics) or other cephalosporins (consult doctor for infection/sensitivity).

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Ernest Chemists Limited (ECL; Ghana-based pharmaceutical company; produces Amiclox as part of its antibiotic range). Marketed/distributed locally in Ghana by ECL (address: Ernest Chemists Ltd., Accra).

Country of Origin:

Ghana (manufactured locally by Ernest Chemists Limited/ECL; widely stocked in Accra pharmacies as a local product).