Flucloxacillin 500mg Capsules

What is Flucloxacillin?

Flucloxacillin is a narrow-spectrum antibiotic medication. It belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics and is specifically classified as a beta-lactamase-resistant penicillin.

What is Flucloxacillin used for?

Flucloxacillin is commonly prescribed to treat skin and soft tissue infections caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and interfering with their ability to build cell walls, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.

How does Flucloxacillin work?

Flucloxacillin works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and ultimately causing their death. It belongs to the class of antibiotics known as penicillins, specifically categorised as a beta-lactamase-resistant penicillin.

How long does Flucloxacillin take to work?

The time it takes for flucloxacillin to work for skin infections can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the infection, the type of bacteria causing the infection, and the individual's response to the medication. In general, improvement in symptoms of skin infections treated with flucloxacillin can often be observed within a few days to a week after starting treatment.

Mild cases of skin infections may show improvement within the first few days of treatment with flucloxacillin. Symptoms such as redness, swelling, and tenderness may begin to resolve, and there may be a reduction in the number of lesions or sores present on the skin.

Alternatives to Flucloxacillin

If the condition is mild you may wish to consider a topical antiseptic like hydrogen peroxide or antibiotic like fusidic acid. If the condition requires oral antibiotics, Clindamycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective against many types of bacteria commonly associated with skin infections, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. It is available in oral, topical, and intravenous formulations and is often used as an alternative to penicillin antibiotics in individuals with penicillin allergies.

How to take flucloxacillin

Flucloxacillin 500mg capsules are prescribed for oral use only.

The normal dosage is 1 capsule (500 mg) four times a day for seven days. The capsules should be taken with a glass of water, ideally on an empty stomach; this means an hour before food or 2 hours after food

If you miss a dose of Flucloxacillin, do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose. Simply take your next dose as normal.

Please read the Patient Information Leaflet thoroughly before starting treatment with Flucloxacillin.

Flucloxacillin ingredients

The active ingredient is Flucloxacillin 500mg

The other ingredients are as follows:

Magnesium stearate

Capsule shell: Gelatin, Titanium dioxide (E171), Indigo carmine (E 132), Water

Printing ink: Shellac (E904), Dehydrated alcohol, Isopropyl alcohol, Butyl alcohol, Propylene glycol, Titanium dioxide (E171), Polysorbate 80

Flucloxacillin side effects

Flucloxacillin, like other antibiotics, may cause some people to experience unwanted side effects. If you are worried about any potential side effects, you should speak to a doctor for advice.

The most common Flucloxacillin side effects include:

Gastrointestinal Upset: Gastrointestinal side effects are common with flucloxacillin and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort. These symptoms are usually mild and transient but can occasionally be severe.

Skin Reactions: Flucloxacillin can sometimes cause allergic skin reactions, such as rash, itching, or hives. In rare cases, severe allergic reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis may occur, characterised by widespread skin blistering and peeling. These severe reactions require immediate medical attention.

Liver Toxicity: Flucloxacillin can rarely cause liver toxicity, leading to abnormal liver function tests or more severe liver damage. Symptoms of liver toxicity may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, or unexplained fatigue. If you experience any symptoms of liver toxicity while taking flucloxacillin, seek medical attention promptly.

It's important to note that while these are some of the most common potential side effects of flucloxacillin, not everyone will experience them. Most people tolerate flucloxacillin well, and serious side effects are relatively rare. However, if you have concerns about side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while taking flucloxacillin, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Flucloxacillin allergy

Flucloxacillin allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction to the antibiotic medication flucloxacillin. Allergic reactions to flucloxacillin can vary in severity, ranging from mild skin rashes to severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Symptoms of a flucloxacillin allergy may include:

1. Skin Reactions: Itchy rash, hives (raised, red welts on the skin), or blistering skin eruptions.
2. Respiratory Symptoms: Wheezing, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath.
3. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhoea.
4. Swelling: Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema).
5. Anaphylaxis: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can occur rapidly and is potentially life-threatening. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, loss of consciousness, and severe swelling of the face and throat.

If you suspect you are experiencing an allergic reaction to flucloxacillin, seek immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis requires prompt treatment with epinephrine and emergency medical care.

It's important to inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies, including allergies to antibiotics like penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics, before starting treatment with flucloxacillin. If you have a history of allergic reactions to flucloxacillin or related antibiotics, your healthcare provider may prescribe an alternative medication.

Flucloxacillin warnings

Flucloxacillin, like any medication, comes with important warnings and precautions. Here are some key warnings associated with the use of flucloxacillin:

1. Allergic Reactions: Flucloxacillin belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics, and allergic reactions to penicillins are common. Before taking flucloxacillin, inform your healthcare provider if you have a known allergy to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics. Allergic reactions to flucloxacillin can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction. If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Liver Function: Flucloxacillin can rarely cause liver toxicity, particularly in high doses or with prolonged use. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of liver disease or if you experience symptoms of liver problems while taking flucloxacillin, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, or unexplained fatigue.
3. Clostridium difficile Infection: Antibiotic use, including flucloxacillin, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and increase the risk of developing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), a potentially severe gastrointestinal infection. Inform your healthcare provider if you develop persistent diarrhea or abdominal pain while taking flucloxacillin, as these may be symptoms of CDI.
4. Drug Interactions: Flucloxacillin may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants (blood thinners), and medications metabolized by the liver. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting flucloxacillin to avoid potential drug interactions.
5. Kidney Function: Flucloxacillin is primarily eliminated from the body through the kidneys. If you have impaired kidney function, your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage of flucloxacillin accordingly to prevent the accumulation of the medication in the body.
   

It's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and the medication label carefully when taking flucloxacillin. If you have any questions or concerns about the warnings associated with flucloxacillin, discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Can you take Flucloxacillin with alcohol?

There is no evidence available to suggest any adverse reactions between Flucloxacillin and alcohol, however it is advised that alcohol is drunk in moderation.

Can you take ibuprofen and paracetamol with Flucloxacillin?

Yes, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen alongside Flucloxacillin, as there is no known interaction between these medications.

Flucloxacillin in pregnancy and breastfeeding

While flucloxacillin is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Does Flucloxacillin have penicillin in it?

Yes, Flucloxacillin is a penicillin.

Sources

• Patient Information Leaflet
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/...