Ampules To break an ampule properly, the head must be broken from the body of the ampule. To make the break properly, the ampule neck is cleansed with an alcohol swab and the swab should be left in place. To withdraw medication from an ampule, the ampule should be tilted and the bevel of the needle placed in the corner space (or shoulder) near the opening. To withdraw the solution, either use a filter needle and change to a regular needle BEFORE expelling the contents.