Ampicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis; sulbactam irreversibly inhibits bacterial beta-lactamases. Parenteral formulation provides broader-spectrum coverage against beta-lactamase-producing organisms.
At a glance
Class
Beta-Lactam / Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor (Parenteral)
Storage
Powder at room temperature; reconstituted IM use within 1h; IV within 8h
Dosing
Parenteral broad-spectrum for hospitalized patients with serious infections (per
Used for serious intra-abdominal infections, sepsis, and post-surgical prophylax
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Clinical responseIV catheter site (phlebitis)Renal function with prolonged use
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Ampicillin/Sulbactam?
Ampicillin/Sulbactam is a beta-lactam / beta-lactamase inhibitor (parenteral) used in pets. Ampicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis; sulbactam irreversibly inhibits bacterial beta-lactamases. Parenteral formulation provides broader-spectrum coverage against beta-lactamase-producing organisms.
›What is Ampicillin/Sulbactam used for in pets?
Ampicillin/Sulbactam is used in veterinary medicine for: Parenteral broad-spectrum for hospitalized patients with serious infections (per; Used for serious intra-abdominal infections, sepsis, and post-surgical prophylax.
›What is the Ampicillin/Sulbactam dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ampicillin/Sulbactam is typically dosed as follows — Parenteral broad-spectrum for hospitalized patients with serious infections (per: 22–30 mg/kg IV/IM q6–8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ampicillin/Sulbactam dose for cats?
For cats, Ampicillin/Sulbactam is typically dosed as follows — Used for serious intra-abdominal infections, sepsis, and post-surgical prophylax: 22 mg/kg IV/IM q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Ampicillin/Sulbactam need a prescription?
Yes. Ampicillin/Sulbactam is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database