What it is used for
- Skin and soft-tissue infections such as cellulitis and infected wounds
- Boils and abscesses
- Some bone and joint infections
- Certain infections caused by staph bacteria
How it works
Flucloxacillin is a penicillin antibiotic that is especially good against staph bacteria, which commonly cause skin infections. It stops bacteria from building their cell walls so they die. It is widely used outside North America; a close relative, dicloxacillin, is used in some regions.
How it is taken
Comes as capsules and a liquid (oral suspension), and an injection in hospital. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. It is usually taken on an empty stomach for better absorption. Complete the full course as advised.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach upset
- Mild rash
- Thrush
Serious effects — get help
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes or dark urine (possible liver problem, which can appear days or weeks after stopping)
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling or breathing difficulty
- Severe, persistent or bloody diarrhoea
- Severe blistering skin reactions
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Methotrexate
- Blood thinners such as warfarin
- Some other antibiotics
- Certain gout medicines
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician about any penicillin allergy
- Tell your clinician if you have had liver problems with this medicine before
- Tell your clinician if you have kidney problems
- Take on an empty stomach when advised
- Report yellowing of the skin or eyes, which can occur after the course ends