Dicloxacillin: Uses, indications and precautions when using

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Dicloxacillin is used to treat many types of infections caused by bacteria. Dicloxacillin is a penicillin antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. The antibiotic Dicloxacillin only treats bacterial infections, it will not be effective against infections caused by viruses.

1. What are the effects of Dicloxacillin?

The antibiotic Dicloxacillin works to stop the growth of bacteria, it is used to treat many types of infections caused by bacteria.
Specifically, Dicloxacillin is indicated in the following cases:
Bacterial infections Acute sinus infections caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. Pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. Bronchitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Bone infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Diabetics have foot infections caused by a specific type of bacteria. The child has a fever of unknown cause. Dicloxacillin is contraindicated in cases of:
Diarrhea caused by infection with Clostridium difficile bacteria.

2. How to use Dicloxacillin

Dicloxacillin is to be taken by mouth as often as 4 times a day (once every 6 hours), or as directed by your doctor. Take dicloxacillin on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal) with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of fluids while using Dicloxacillin unless your doctor tells you otherwise. The dose of Dicloxacillin is calculated based on your medical condition and response to therapy. For best results, take the antibiotic Dicloxacillin at spaced times. To help you remember, take Dicloxacillin at the same time(s) each day. Continue taking Dicloxacillin until the prescribed amount is used up even if symptoms disappear after a few days of treatment. Stopping Dicloxacillin too soon can allow bacteria to continue to grow, leading to a relapse of the infection. Dicloxacillin is prescribed only for your current condition. Do not use Dicloxacillin for another infection in the future, unless your doctor tells you to. During prolonged treatment with Dicloxacillin, tests such as kidney and liver function, complete blood count, etc. should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects.

3. Dicloxacillin side effects

While using Dicloxacillin, you may experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor right away.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed Dicloxacillin because they have judged that the benefit to you outweighs the risk of side effects. Many people who use Dicloxacillin have no serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if any of the following rare but very serious side effects occur while using Dicloxacillin: Dark urine, persistent nausea or vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain , yellowing of the eyes or skin, easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat or fever.
Dicloxacillin can rarely cause a serious intestinal condition caused by a resistant bacteria. This condition may occur during treatment with Dicloxacillin or weeks to months after stopping treatment. Do not use antidiarrheal medicines or opioid pain relievers if you have any of the following symptoms, as these medicines can make them worse. Tell your doctor right away if you develop the following symptoms: Persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, appearance of blood/mucus in your stool.
Prolonged or repeated use of Dicloxacillin may lead to oral thrush or vaginal yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms.
A serious allergic reaction to Dicloxacillin is very unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction to Dicloxacillin may include: Rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), difficulty breathing, severe dizziness.
Below are Dicloxacillin side effects by likelihood.
Common side effects of Dicloxacillin include:
Yeast infections in the vulva and vagina. Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Uncommon side effects of Dicloxacillin include:
Skin rash with peeling Leech nests Anaphylactic shock Itching Stomach cramps Rare side effects of Dicloxacillin include:
Diarrhea due to: Clostridium difficile infection Destroys red blood cells by the body's own antibodies. Low platelet count and bleeding due to immune response. Decreased platelets in the blood. Very low granulocyte count Low white blood cell count Low neutrophil level Eosinophils in the blood Allergic reactions causing vasculitis Swelling of the vocal cords Liver damage and hepatitis Bile duct obstruction Interstitial nephritis Erythema multiforme Toxic epidermal necrolysis Stevens-Johnson syndrome Convulsions Presence of crystals in urine Abnormal liver function Macular rash Pustular disease DRESS syndrome Anemia Confusion Agitation Behavior problems Tooth discoloration Dizziness Difficulty sleeping Feeling anxious This is not a complete list of Dicloxacillin's possible side effects. If you notice other effects of Dicloxacillin not listed above, contact your doctor.

4. Measures to prevent side effects of Dicloxacillin

Before taking dicloxacillin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to this medicine; or penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics and any other allergies if present. Dicloxacillin medicinal products may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Before using Dicloxacillin, tell your doctor your medical history, especially Kidney disease.
Dicloxacillin may make live attenuated bacterial vaccines such as typhoid vaccine inactive. Do not have any vaccinations/vaccinations while using the antibiotic Dicloxacillin, unless your doctor tells you to. Dicloxacillin should be used only when clearly needed by a woman during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits of the drug with your doctor. Dicloxacillin passes into breast milk, therefore women who are breastfeeding should consult their doctor before breast-feeding.

5. Dicloxacillin drug interactions

Your doctor may already be aware of any possible drug interactions with Dicloxacillin and may monitor you for it. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine while using Dicloxacillin without your doctor's consent.
Before using Dicloxacillin, tell your doctor about all prescription and nonprescription or herbal medicines you are using, especially of: Methotrexate, tetracyclines, warfarin.
Dicloxacillin may cause false-positive results with some diabetic urinalysis products (cupric sulfate type). Dicloxacillin may also affect the results of certain other tests. Make sure laboratory staff and your doctor know you are using Dicloxacillin.

6. What to do if you overdose or forget to use Dicloxacillin?

If you or someone else has overdosed on Dicloxacillin and has severe symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately. Symptoms of Dicloxacillin overdose may include: Severe vomiting, persistent diarrhea, unusual changes in the amount of urine, or seizures.
If you miss a dose of Dicloxacillin, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose of Dicloxacillin at the usual time, do not take a double dose of your usual dose.

7. How to store Dicloxacillin

Store Dicloxacillin at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) in an airtight container, away from extreme heat and humidity. Do not store medicine in the bathroom. Keep Dicloxacillin out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not flush Dicloxacillin down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Dispose of this antibiotic appropriately when it has expired or is no longer needed.

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Reference source: webmd.com