Which type of bacteria does ampicillin primarily target?

Ampicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics and works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, which is crucial for their survival and replication.

Gram-positive bacteria, such as staphylococci and streptococci, are particularly susceptible to ampicillin due to their thick peptidoglycan cell walls. However, ampicillin is also effective against certain Gram-negative bacteria, like Escherichia coli and Haemophilus influenzae, albeit with variable efficacy depending on the specific organism and its resistance patterns. This broad activity allows ampicillin to be utilized in treating infections caused by a variety of bacterial pathogens, making it a versatile option in clinical settings.

The other options provided do not accurately represent the spectrum of ampicillin’s activity. Some may limit its effectiveness to only one group, or incorrectly suggest it targets viral infections, which are not susceptible to antibiotics like ampicillin.