Flucloxacillin

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Generic Name of Flucloxacillin - Learn More

Flucloxacillin

Flucloxacillin Precaution - What You Need to Know

Flucloxacillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory tract infections, and bone and joint infections. While it is generally well-tolerated, certain precautions should be considered before prescribing this medication. Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics should not use flucloxacillin due to the risk of allergic reactions, which can range from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis. Individuals with a history of liver disease, particularly those with hepatic impairment, should use flucloxacillin with caution, as it is metabolized in the liver and may cause liver toxicity in some individuals. Liver function tests should be monitored periodically, especially during long-term treatment. Prolonged or high-dose use of flucloxacillin can lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, such as yeast (e.g., Candida), leading to superinfection. Patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders, especially colitis, should be monitored closely, as antibiotics like flucloxacillin can disrupt the balance of normal gut flora and potentially lead to Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD). Flucloxacillin should be used cautiously in pregnant women, particularly during the first trimester, as its safety during pregnancy has not been fully established, although it is generally considered safe when needed. It is important for patients to inform their healthcare provider of any other medications they are taking, as drug interactions may affect the drug's efficacy or increase the risk of side effects.

Flucloxacillin Indication - Uses and Benefits

Flucloxacillin is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by penicillin-sensitive bacteria, particularly those produced by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. It is most commonly used to treat skin and soft tissue infections, such as cellulitis, impetigo, and infected wounds. Additionally, it is used for respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as bone and joint infections, including osteomyelitis. Flucloxacillin is also effective in treating infections of the heart valve (endocarditis) and urinary tract infections caused by susceptible organisms. Flucloxacillin is particularly effective against penicillin-resistant staphylococci, including methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), which makes it a key agent for treating infections caused by these bacteria. It is not effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or other multi-drug-resistant organisms. The drug is often used in conjunction with other antibiotics for more severe or complicated infections, or when there is concern about antibiotic resistance. Although it is primarily indicated for bacterial infections, flucloxacillin can be used off-label in some cases, such as for preventing infections in patients undergoing surgical procedures or for prophylaxis in immunocompromised individuals.

Flucloxacillin Contraindications - Important Warnings

Flucloxacillin is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to flucloxacillin, penicillin, or any other beta-lactam antibiotics, as severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, may occur. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of liver disease or jaundice associated with flucloxacillin or other penicillins, as the drug can cause liver toxicity or worsen pre-existing liver conditions. If a patient has experienced a severe allergic reaction, such as angioedema or anaphylactic shock, after previous exposure to flucloxacillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics, the medication should be avoided. Flucloxacillin should also be avoided in individuals with mononucleosis, as it has been associated with a higher risk of developing rashes in such patients. It is contraindicated during known or suspected hypersensitivity reactions to cephalosporins, although cross-reactivity between penicillins and cephalosporins is uncommon, caution should still be exercised. Due to the drug's potential to cause liver dysfunction, flucloxacillin should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment without careful monitoring. During pregnancy, flucloxacillin should be prescribed only if the benefits outweigh the risks, and it should be avoided during breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary.

Flucloxacillin Side Effects - What to Expect

Flucloxacillin is generally well-tolerated, but side effects can occur in some patients. The most common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve once the drug is discontinued. Allergic reactions are possible and can range from mild skin rashes to more severe reactions like anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Hepatic toxicity, including liver enzyme elevations, jaundice, and hepatitis, has been reported, particularly with prolonged use or high doses. Patients on long-term therapy with flucloxacillin should have regular liver function tests. In rare cases, flucloxacillin can cause hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, or eosinophilia. Another potential side effect is Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can occur after antibiotic treatment and lead to severe gastrointestinal complications. It is important to monitor for signs of CDAD, including persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. Less common but more serious side effects include interstitial nephritis and seizures, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal conditions or those using high doses of the drug. If any severe side effects are noted, treatment with flucloxacillin should be discontinued, and appropriate medical attention should be sought immediately.

Flucloxacillin Pregnancy Category ID - Safety Information

2

Flucloxacillin Mode of Action - How It Works

Flucloxacillin is a semi-synthetic penicillin antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Specifically, it binds to and inactivates penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), which are enzymes critical for the final stages of peptidoglycan cross-linking in the bacterial cell wall. This inhibition disrupts cell wall integrity, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. Flucloxacillin is resistant to beta-lactamase enzymes produced by certain bacteria, which is why it is particularly effective against penicillin-resistant staphylococci, including methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Unlike other penicillins, flucloxacillin has been modified to resist hydrolysis by staphylococcal beta-lactamases, which makes it more effective against beta-lactamase-producing organisms. However, flucloxacillin is not effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or other multi-drug-resistant organisms. Its bactericidal action is most effective against actively dividing bacteria, and its spectrum of activity includes a variety of gram-positive organisms, especially those causing skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory infections, and more.

Flucloxacillin Drug Interactions - What to Avoid

Flucloxacillin can interact with several medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of adverse effects. It is known to interact with oral anticoagulants, such as warfarin, as it can enhance the anticoagulant effects, increasing the risk of bleeding. Patients on anticoagulants should have their international normalized ratio (INR) monitored closely during flucloxacillin therapy. Flucloxacillin may also reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives in some cases, so additional contraceptive methods may be advised during treatment. Co-administration with other antibiotics, particularly bacteriostatic agents such as tetracyclines or chloramphenicol, can reduce the efficacy of flucloxacillin, as these antibiotics work by inhibiting bacterial growth rather than killing bacteria directly. In patients receiving high doses of flucloxacillin, there may be an increased risk of nephrotoxicity if taken with other nephrotoxic drugs, such as aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin). Flucloxacillin may also interact with drugs that influence liver function, such as rifampin or drugs that induce liver enzymes, which can potentially increase the metabolism of flucloxacillin and reduce its effectiveness. Additionally, concomitant use with probenecid can increase the plasma concentration of flucloxacillin, as probenecid inhibits its renal excretion. It is important to inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken to avoid potential interactions.

Flucloxacillin Adult Dose - Recommended Dosage

The typical adult dose of flucloxacillin depends on the severity and type of infection. For mild to moderate infections, the usual dose is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours, up to a maximum of 4 grams per day. For severe infections, higher doses of up to 1 gram every 6 hours may be prescribed. Flucloxacillin is typically administered orally, although intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) administration may be used for more severe infections or when oral intake is not possible. In the case of bone and joint infections, such as osteomyelitis, higher doses and longer durations of treatment may be necessary, with the total daily dose potentially exceeding 4 grams. The duration of therapy depends on the type and location of the infection, with most treatments lasting from 7 to 14 days. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of therapy, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Flucloxacillin Child Dose - Dosage for Children

For children, the dosing of flucloxacillin depends on age, weight, and the type of infection being treated. For children over 1 year of age, the typical dose ranges from 25 to 50 mg/kg per day, divided into 3 or 4 doses. For severe infections, the dose may be increased to 100 mg/kg per day. In infants and children under 1 year of age, the dose is usually lower, and special consideration is given to their developing liver and kidney function. Flucloxacillin should be given at regular intervals, typically every 6 hours, and should be continued for the duration recommended by the healthcare provider, usually 7 to 10 days, depending on the severity of the infection. As with adults, it is important for the child to complete the entire course of therapy, even if symptoms improve. Flucloxacillin is available in oral

forms, such as tablets or oral suspension, and the dosage should be adjusted according to the child’s weight and the prescribing guidelines.

Flucloxacillin Renal Dose - Dosage for Kidney Conditions

Flucloxacillin is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, and its dosage should be adjusted for patients with impaired renal function. For patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 10-50 mL/min), no dose adjustment is typically necessary; however, careful monitoring is recommended. In patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min), flucloxacillin should be used with caution, and the dose should be reduced or the dosing interval extended to prevent drug accumulation and toxicity. Regular monitoring of renal function and plasma drug levels may be necessary to ensure safe use. For patients undergoing dialysis, additional dosing adjustments may be required, as flucloxacillin can be partially removed during dialysis. The dosing regimen should be determined by the healthcare provider based on individual renal function and the type of infection being treated.