IBCLC Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Preparation Guide

Ampicillin is generally considered to be relatively safe for use in neonates, which is why it is not typically known for high toxicity in this population. It is a penicillin antibiotic that is commonly used to treat infections in newborns and is effective against a range of bacteria. While every medication can have side effects, ampicillin is routinely used in neonates and is generally well tolerated.

In contrast, chloramphenicol is known for its potential toxicity in neonates, primarily due to the risk of "gray baby syndrome," which can occur because neonates lack the adequate enzyme systems to metabolize the drug. Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, can also cause nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity in newborns, particularly if dosages are not carefully monitored due to their immature renal function. Metronidazole, while not frequently used in neonates, carries the risk of neurotoxicity, particularly with prolonged use or high doses.

Therefore, when looking at these options, ampicillin stands out as the one that does not carry a high risk of toxicity in neonates, making it the correct choice for this question.