Flucloxacillin

In Aotearoa New Zealand flucloxacillin is available as capsules (250 mg and 500 mg) and liquid and can be given as an injection in the hospital.

• The dose of flucloxacillin will be different for different people depending on the type of infection.
• The usual dose of flucloxacillin capsules in adults is 500 mg 4 times a day. Some people may need a higher dose.
• Your doctor will advise you on how long to take flucloxacillin for (usually 5–7 days).
• For most infections, you should feel better within a few days.
• Always take your flucloxacillin exactly as your doctor has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions. 

Flucloxacillin is best taken on an empty stomach, one hour before eating food or at least 2 hours after. This is because your body may absorb less flucloxacillin after a meal, making it less effective.

• Swallow the capsule with a glass of water (200–250 mLs). Do not chew them.
• Timing: Take flucloxacillin at the same times each day. Try to space your doses evenly throughout the day. For example, for 4 times a day dosing take, first thing in the morning (before breakfast), at around midday (before lunch), late in the afternoon (before tea) and at bedtime.
• Missed dose: If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. But, if it is nearly time for your next dose, take the next dose at the right time. Do not take extra doses to make up for a forgotten dose. If you are not sure what to do, ask your healthcare provider.
• Alcohol: You can drink alcohol while taking flucloxacillin. Avoid heavy or binge drinking because it can increase your risk of side effects such as nausea and vomiting. 
• Complete the course: Take the whole course of antibiotics for the number of days your doctor has told you to. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel your infection has cleared up. If you stop your treatment early, your infection could come back.

Like all medicines, flucloxacillin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.

Allergic reaction

Tell your healthcare provider if you have had an allergic reaction to a medicine, especially a penicillin antibiotic. True penicillin allergy is rare – fewer than 5 out of 10,000 people are allergic to penicillin.
Most people who think they have a penicillin allergy do not – read more about penicillins and penicillin allergy).

If you develop signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rash, itching, swelling of your lips, face and mouth, or difficulty breathing, stop taking amoxicillin and seek immediate medical attention. 

Other side effects