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Flucloxacillin Sodium: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Flucloxacillin Sodium is a narrow-spectrum, penicillinase-resistant penicillin antibiotic used to treat infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria and more.

Forms:CapsuleIM/IV InjectionPowder for Suspension

About Flucloxacillin Sodium

Indications of Flucloxacillin Sodium

Flucloxacillin Sodium is a narrow-spectrum, penicillinase-resistant penicillin antibiotic used to treat infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, particularly penicillinase-producing strains of Staphylococcus aureus.

Established (guideline-supported) uses

  • Skin and soft tissue infections such as cellulitis, boils, abscesses, and infected wounds caused by susceptible staphylococci and streptococci
  • Bone and joint infections, including osteomyelitis and septic arthritis
  • Respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia) caused by susceptible organisms
  • Otitis externa and other localized staphylococcal skin infections

Adjunct / combination therapy uses

  • Infective endocarditis caused by susceptible staphylococci, usually combined with an aminoglycoside such as gentamicin
  • Surgical prophylaxis in cardiothoracic and orthopedic procedures where staphylococcal infection is a concern, often combined with other agents

Off-label / less-common uses

  • Chronic suppressive therapy in selected prosthetic joint or hardware-associated infections (specialist-guided, off-label)

Flucloxacillin Sodium is not active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and should not be relied upon when MRSA is suspected or confirmed.

Dosage & Administration of Flucloxacillin Sodium

Dosage of Flucloxacillin Sodium should be individualized according to the severity and site of infection, patient age, and renal/hepatic function. The following are general guidelines; the prescribing physician's instructions should always be followed.

IndicationAdult DosePediatric Dose
Mild-to-moderate skin/soft tissue or respiratory infection (oral)250-500 mg four times daily2-10 years: half the adult dose; under 2 years: one-quarter the adult dose, four times daily
Moderate-to-severe infection (IM/IV)250 mg-1 g four times dailyWeight-based dosing per pediatric guidance; specialist input advised
Osteomyelitis, endocarditis, or other severe/deep-seated infectionUp to 8 g daily in divided doses (IV, six- to eight-hourly), often combined with other antibioticsSpecialist-guided, weight-based high-dose regimen
Surgical prophylaxisAs directed by the surgical/anesthesia team, typically at induction and for a limited postoperative periodNot routinely used; specialist decision

Renal impairment: In severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance below 10 mL/min), dose reduction or extension of the dosing interval should be considered.

Important: Take Flucloxacillin Sodium exactly as prescribed by your physician; do not stop, extend, skip doses, or share this medicine with others without medical advice, even if symptoms improve before the course is finished.

Side Effects of Flucloxacillin Sodium

Common side effects of Flucloxacillin Sodium include:

  • Gastrointestinal disturbances: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspepsia
  • Skin reactions: rash, urticaria

Less common but clinically important effects include hypersensitivity reactions, cholestatic jaundice and hepatitis (see Precautions and Warnings), interstitial nephritis, and antibiotic-associated (Clostridioides difficile) colitis. Blood count changes such as eosinophilia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia have rarely been reported.

Contraindications of Flucloxacillin Sodium

Flucloxacillin Sodium is contraindicated in:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to flucloxacillin, other penicillins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., cephalosporins), due to the risk of cross-reactivity.
  • Patients with a previous history of cholestatic jaundice or hepatic dysfunction associated with Flucloxacillin Sodium use.

Frequently Asked Questions about Flucloxacillin Sodium

What is Flucloxacillin Sodium used for?

Flucloxacillin Sodium is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by susceptible staphylococcal and streptococcal bacteria, including skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, and certain respiratory infections. It is not effective against MRSA.

Can I stop taking Flucloxacillin Sodium once I feel better?

No. You should take Flucloxacillin Sodium exactly as prescribed by your physician and complete the full course; do not stop, extend, skip doses, or share this medicine with others without medical advice, even if your symptoms improve early.

Is Flucloxacillin Sodium safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Flucloxacillin Sodium should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, when the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus; it passes into breast milk in small amounts, so a physician should be consulted before use during breastfeeding.

What warning signs should I watch for while taking Flucloxacillin Sodium?

Seek medical attention promptly if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, or persistent itching, as Flucloxacillin Sodium is specifically associated with a risk of cholestatic jaundice/hepatitis that can occur even weeks after stopping treatment. Also seek urgent care for signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing, widespread rash).

Can Flucloxacillin Sodium be taken with food?

It is best to take Flucloxacillin Sodium capsules or oral suspension on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, because food can reduce its absorption.

What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much Flucloxacillin Sodium?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose; do not double the dose. If you suspect an overdose of Flucloxacillin Sodium, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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