Antimicrobial‐associated encephalopathy due to ampicillin

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Because the β‐lactam ring has a molecular structure similar to that of gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters, it binds to GABA A receptors and inhibits GABAergic transmission, causing AAE. The possibility of antimicrobial‐associated encephalopathy should be considered in cases of neurological or psychiatric symptoms after initiating an antimicrobial regimen.

Keywords

• ampicillin
• antimicrobial‐associated encephalopathy
• beta‐lactams
• penicillin
• seizures