Description
Indications
Cloxacillin is employed in the management of diverse bacterial infections. This drug belongs to the penicillin antibiotic class. It operates by halting the proliferation of bacteria.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally. It is most effectively absorbed on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after meals.
If you are using the liquid suspension form, ensure you shake the bottle thoroughly before each dose.
The prescribed dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to the treatment. In the case of children, the dosage is also influenced by their weight and age.
To maximize the medication’s efficacy, take this antibiotic at consistent intervals. Establish a routine by taking the medication at the same time(s) daily to help you remember.
Continue taking the full prescribed amount until completion, even if your symptoms diminish within a few days. Prematurely discontinuing the medication may lead to the resurgence of the infection.
If your condition persists or worsens, inform your doctor promptly.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea (mild)
- headache
- sore mouth or tongue
- vaginal itching and discharge
- white patches in the mouth and/or on the tongue
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- fast or irregular breathing
- fever
- joint pain
- lightheadedness or fainting (sudden)
- puffiness or swelling around the face
- red, scaly skin
- shortness of breath
- skin rash, hives, itching
Caution
- Prior to taking cloxacillin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, especially if you are allergic to this medication, other antibiotics such as penicillin-type drugs (e.g., amoxicillin, ampicillin, penicillin), or cephalosporins (e.g., cephalexin, cefuroxime), or if you have any other known allergies. The product might contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before initiating this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have kidney problems.
- Cloxacillin may impact the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines like the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare professional before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations.
- Older adults and newborns may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug.
- If you are pregnant, use this medication only if absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Cloxapen is available in the following forms and strengths:
- cloxacillin capsule:
- 500 mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Cloxapen to start working?
You should start to feel better within two days of starting Cloxapen.
How many days should you take Cloxapen?
For most infections your doctor will have you take this medication for 7 days.
Resources
- https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=109&language=English#:~:text=How%20long%20does%20it%20take%20cloxacillin%20to%20work%3F,two%20days%20of%20starting%20cloxacillin
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/penicillin-oral-route-injection-route-intravenous-route-intramuscular-route/side-effects/drg-20062334
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/cloxacillin-oral
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-52602/cloxapen-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/cons/cloxapen.html