Description:

Amiclox suspension is a combination oral antibiotic syrup containing ampicillin and cloxacillin. It is used to treat bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms, particularly mixed staphylococcal and streptococcal infections where beta-lactamase resistance may be present. Common indications in children and adults include respiratory tract infections (tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis media, bronchitis, pneumonia), skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, bone/joint infections, and dental infections. The suspension form is convenient for accurate paediatric dosing and for patients who cannot swallow capsules/tablets.

Prescription:

Prescription-only.

Therapeutic Category:

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

Active Ingredients/Composition: After reconstitution, per 5 ml:

• Ampicillin (as ampicillin trihydrate) – 125 mg
• Cloxacillin (as cloxacillin sodium) – 125 mg Total 250 mg antibiotic per 5 ml (125 mg ampicillin + 125 mg cloxacillin). Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Sucrose/sorbitol (sweetener), flavoring (e.g., fruit), preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate), suspending agents, thickeners, citric acid (pH adjuster), and purified water (dry powder for reconstitution).

Variant:

• Amiclox 250 Suspension 100ml (125 mg/125 mg per 5 ml after reconstitution). Related variants: Amiclox 500 Capsules/Tablets (250mg/250mg per capsule for adults), higher-strength suspensions (e.g., 250mg/250mg per 5 ml in some markets), or smaller bottles (e.g., 60ml). The 100ml bottle is standard for paediatric/adult use.

Consume Type:

Oral – Powder for oral suspension (reconstitute with water to make liquid; shake well before each dose; measured with provided syringe/spoon).

Directions/Usage:

Reconstitute powder with specified boiled/cooled water volume (usually ~90–95 ml for 100ml final volume; follow bottle instructions). Shake vigorously.

• Adults: Typically 10 ml (500 mg total antibiotic) every 6–8 hours (3–4 times daily).
• Children: Weight-based (e.g., 20–40 mg/kg/day divided every 6–8 hours; doctor determines exact).
• Take at start of meals to reduce stomach upset.
• Duration: Usually 5–10 days (complete full course even if symptoms improve).
• Use measuring device (not household spoon).
• Store reconstituted suspension in refrigerator.

Common Side Effects: Common:

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

Package Type:

Amber plastic bottle of 100ml (powder for reconstitution; child-resistant cap, measuring syringe/spoon included; often in carton with leaflet).

Storage Advice:

• Before reconstitution: Store dry powder below 25–30°C in cool, dry place, away from light/moisture.
• After reconstitution: Refrigerate (2–8°C); do not freeze. Use within 7–14 days (check label). Shake well before each dose. 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 diarrhoea occurs, stop and seek urgent care.
• Complete course to prevent resistance; probiotics may help prevent diarrhoea.

Product Substitutes: Similar ampicillin + cloxacillin oral suspensions in Ghana include:

• Ampiclox Suspension (GSK/Ernest Chemists brand, same 125mg/125mg per 5ml).
• Generic ampicillin/cloxacillin dry syrup (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).