Flucloxacillin

What is Flucloxacillin?

Flucloxacillin is an antibiotic that treats bacterial infections of the skin, respiratory tract and more. It’s in a group of antibiotics called penicillin. Drugs in this category can kill gram-positive bacteria by inhibiting the cell wall formation in bacteria. Flucloxacillin is used to treat many skin infections, including impetigo and folliculitis. ^[1]

Impetigo is a common condition that affects the upper layers of the skin. It causes red, inflamed plaques (referred to medically as erythematous plaques) with a yellow crust. These can be itchy and painful and usually spread easily. ^[2] Impetigo is very contagious and should be treated with antibiotics to prevent spreading.

Folliculitis is a skin condition caused by bacteria that infects the hair follicles. This makes the hair follicles inflamed and red, and can cause pustules (spots containing pus) or papules (spots containing no pus). ^[3] It’s a treatable condition and will often go away on its own, but if it becomes serious, an antibiotic will be prescribed.

How does Flucloxacillin work?

Flucloxacillin is an antibiotic in the penicillin group. Drugs in this group can kill bacteria by inhibiting the formation of a cell wall. This weakens the bacteria and makes it more vulnerable to osmotic pressures. As a result the bacteria dies. ^[1]

For impetigo and folliculitis, a topical antibiotic is commonly the first choice treatment, But if the condition gets worse, an oral antibiotic will be prescribed.

What doses of Flucloxacillin are there?

Flucloxacillin is commonly prescribed for many skin infections caused by bacteria. It can come as a liquid, capsule, or as an injection, but at Treated we offer the capsule version. It comes in a 500mg dose.

How to take Flucloxacillin

Flucloxacillin should be taken as advised by our clinician, following the dosage and the recommended time. To make sure you take it correctly, follow the directions below:

• Take one tablet on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal.
• Drink with a full glass of water (250ml).
• Try not to lie down, for a short while, after taking a capsule.

How long does Flucloxacillin take to work?

After 2-3 days of taking Flucloxacillin, you should start to feel better. However, this doesn’t mean you should stop taking it. Continue with the course until you’ve finished it. This will help to make sure the bacteria is completely killed off and the infection won’t come back. If after three days you don’t feel better, let our clinician know and we’ll get back to you.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Flucloxacillin?

If you forget to take a dose of Flucloxacillin, take it when you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip it. If you take more than you were prescribed, go to your nearest hospital. You may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea if you overdose.