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Flucloxacillin

About flucloxacillin

Flucloxacillin is an antibiotic.

It's used to treat:

  • skin and wound infections
  • bone infections (osteomyelitis)
  • ear infections in children

Flucloxacillin is only available on prescription.

It comes as capsules or as a liquid that you swallow. It can also be given by injection, but this is usually done in hospital.

Who can and cannot take flucloxacillin

Flucloxacillin can be taken by adults, including throughout pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Flucloxacillin can also be taken by children.

To make sure flucloxacillin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you:

  • have ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin, flucloxacillin or any other medicine
  • have liver or kidney problems
  • have recently had, or are due to have, any vaccinations

How and when to take flucloxacillin

The usual dose of flucloxacillin is 250mg to 500mg, taken 4 times a day. For children, the dose may be lower.

Try to space your doses evenly throughout the day. For example, first thing in the morning (before breakfast), at around midday (before lunch), late in the afternoon (before tea) and at bedtime.

Carry on taking this medicine until you've finished all your tablets, capsules or liquid, even if you feel better. If you stop your treatment early, your symptoms could come back.

Swallow flucloxacillin capsules whole with a drink of water. Do not chew or break them.

It's best to take flucloxacillin on an empty stomach. That means taking it at least 30 to 60 minutes before a meal or snack, and at least 2 hours after.

Liquid flucloxacillin is available for children, and people who find it difficult to swallow capsules.

If you or your child are taking liquid flucloxacillin, it will usually be made up for you by your pharmacist. The medicine will come with a syringe or spoon to help you take the right amount. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon because it will not measure the right amount.

If you forget to take it

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. If this happens, just leave out the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

If you take too much

Try to take the right number of doses each day, leaving at least 3 hours between doses.

Taking an extra dose of flucloxacillin is unlikely to harm you or your child.

Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you're worried or if you take more than 1 extra dose.

Side effects

Like all medicines, flucloxacillin can cause side effects in some people, although not everyone will get them.

Common side effects of flucloxacillin happen in more than 1 in 100 people. Keep taking the medicine, but tell your doctor or pharmacist if these side effects bother you or do not go away:

  • feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)
  • diarrhoea
  • bloating and indigestion

Serious side effects

Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1,000 people.

Call a doctor or contact 111 straight away if:

  • you get diarrhoea (possibly with muscle cramps) that contains blood or mucus, or severe diarrhoea that lasts more than 4 days
  • you have pale poo with dark pee, and the whites of your eyes or skin turn yellow (this may be less obvious on black or brown skin) – this can be a sign of liver problems
  • you get bruising or discoloured skin
  • you have joint or muscle pain that starts happening after 2 days of taking the medicine

Some of these serious side effects may not happen for up to 2 months after finishing the course of flucloxacillin.

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it's possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to flucloxacillin.

These are not all the side effects of flucloxacillin. For a full list see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

How to cope with side effects of flucloxacillin

What to do about:

  • feeling sick or being sick – stick to simple meals and try not to eat rich or spicy food. If you are being sick, take small, frequent sips of fluids such as water or squash to stop getting dehydrated. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. If you take contraceptive pills and you're being sick, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.
  • diarrhoea – drink lots of fluids such as water or squash to stop getting dehydrated. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor. If you take contraceptive pills and you have severe diarrhoea, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.
  • bloating and indigestion – try not to eat foods that cause farting (flatulence), like lentils, peas, beans and onions. You could also try eating smaller meals, eating and drinking more slowly, and exercising regularly.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It's safe to take flucloxacillin during pregnancy.

Flucloxacillin and breastfeeding

It is OK to take flucloxacillin while breastfeeding.

Information shows that only tiny amounts of flucloxacillin get into breast milk, which would not be expected to cause any side effects in your baby.

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, health visitor or midwife if:

  • your baby is not feeding as well as usual
  • they have sickness or diarrhoea
  • your baby has oral thrush or a skin rash
  • you have any other concerns about your baby

Cautions with other medicines

Some medicines can affect the way that flucloxacillin works and increase the chance of you having side effects.

Tell your doctor if you're taking any of these medicines before you start flucloxacillin:

  • methotrexate, an anti-inflammatory medicine for arthritis and similar conditions
  • warfarin, a medicine to prevent blood clots
  • other antibiotics

Tell your doctor if you've recently had, or are due to have, an oral typhoid vaccination. Flucloxacillin can make it less effective.

There is little information about taking herbal remedies and supplements with flucloxacillin.

Related links

Chest infection — Link to Related Condition

Ear infections — Link to Related Condition

Osteomyelitis — Link to Related Condition

Pneumonia — Link to Related Condition

HealthUnlocked: flucloxacillin forum — Link to Useful Resource

British Lung Foundation: charity — Link to Useful Resource

British Skin Foundation: charity — Link to Useful Resource

RNID: charity – ear health — Link to Useful Resource

HealthUnlocked contains information from NHS Digital, licensed under the current version of the Open Government Licence

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113 public posts

Flucloxacillin 500mg

I’ve been prescribed Flucloxacillin 500mg 4 x a day for an infection but I’m on day 2 now and I’m getting terrible burning in the throat right down into my stomach. This is concerning me as really burning 🔥. I can’t get In touch with Dr or pharmacist as there closed.
I’ve been prescribed Flucloxacillin 500mg 4 x a day for an infection but I’m on day 2 now and I’m getting terrible burning in the throat right down into my stomach. This is concerning me as really burning 🔥. I can’t get In touch with Dr or pharmacist as there closed.
Mandie4711 profile image
Mandie4711
in NRAS
1 month ago

co-amoxiclav and methotrexate

other than that they say I can take flucloxacillin for 2 weeks.. gp is saying I should take it.. please advise asap, I'm panicking....
other than that they say I can take flucloxacillin for 2 weeks.. gp is saying I should take it.. please advise asap, I'm panicking....
lindyloo2018 profile image
lindyloo2018
in NRAS
4 months ago

4g of flucloxacillan for 2 weeks - is this normal?

They've prescribed 4g of flucloxacillin for 2 weeks. I'm concerned that this is too high a dose as what I've seen online say 4g for 5-7 days. Has anyone else been prescribed this amount for such a long time?
They've prescribed 4g of flucloxacillin for 2 weeks. I'm concerned that this is too high a dose as what I've seen online say 4g for 5-7 days. Has anyone else been prescribed this amount for such a long time?
Bumblescamps profile image
Bumblescamps
in NRAS
5 days ago
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pregabalin & sleep

I am on anti biotics flucloxacillin 4 times a day for leg infection and Madopar for Parkinson are these working against each other any advice would be greatly appreciated from you wonderful people god bless you all you are in my prayers .
I am on anti biotics flucloxacillin 4 times a day for leg infection and Madopar for Parkinson are these working against each other any advice would be greatly appreciated from you wonderful people god bless you all you are in my prayers .
auldreekie18 profile image
auldreekie18
in Restless Legs Syndrome
3 months ago

mtx and antibiotics and surgery

I have a large blocked sebaceous cyst, gp says it's infected blood results say too high wbc and neutrophils, so I took antibiotics flucloxacillin and stopped mtx. 1 week after antibiotics blood results still say too high wbc and neutrophils (0.5 under max range for each). is it still infected?
I have a large blocked sebaceous cyst, gp says it's infected blood results say too high wbc and neutrophils, so I took antibiotics flucloxacillin and stopped mtx. 1 week after antibiotics blood results still say too high wbc and neutrophils (0.5 under max range for each). is it still infected?
lindyloo2018 profile image
lindyloo2018
in NRAS
4 months ago

Flucloxacillin

I have bronchiectasis and have just been prescribed a course of Flucloxacillin 2 tablets of 500mg 4 times a day for excessive amount of mucus Has anyone else used the tablets and what results did you get also any side effects
I have bronchiectasis and have just been prescribed a course of Flucloxacillin 2 tablets of 500mg 4 times a day for excessive amount of mucus Has anyone else used the tablets and what results did you get also any side effects
Clarice91 profile image
Clarice91
in Lung Conditions Community Forum
10 months ago

How to get rid of balanitis for good

Most recently I have taken Flucloxacillin. However, I feel like this has irritated my penis more. Does anyone know how to make this go away as it is causing serious uncomfort physically and is now starting to have an effect on my self esteem.
Most recently I have taken Flucloxacillin. However, I feel like this has irritated my penis more. Does anyone know how to make this go away as it is causing serious uncomfort physically and is now starting to have an effect on my self esteem.
anonymous977 profile image
anonymous977
in Men's Health Forum (Penis Health)
10 months ago

Cellulitis

She gave me antibiotics for 10 days, flucloxacillin, 8 a day. It wasn't getting better. So went to A and E last Wednesday. The doctor said it didn't look to bad and gave me cream for the itching. It's got worse,going round my leg now. I feel fine,just tired. Don't know what to do.
She gave me antibiotics for 10 days, flucloxacillin, 8 a day. It wasn't getting better. So went to A and E last Wednesday. The doctor said it didn't look to bad and gave me cream for the itching. It's got worse,going round my leg now. I feel fine,just tired. Don't know what to do.
susies profile image
susies
in NRAS
11 months ago

Co-amoxiclav and Flucloxacillin

Now to make matters worse, I also have an ear infection for which I've been prescribed Flucloxacillin 500mg. I haven't taken these yet as incredibly fearful after the previous experience with the Co-amoxiclav. I have my consultant appointment in 2 weeks so will ask them what I should do.
Now to make matters worse, I also have an ear infection for which I've been prescribed Flucloxacillin 500mg. I haven't taken these yet as incredibly fearful after the previous experience with the Co-amoxiclav. I have my consultant appointment in 2 weeks so will ask them what I should do.
SurferGuy profile image
SurferGuy
in LUPUS UK
11 months ago

Coming off Ruxolitinib, taking Flucloxacillin and feeling rubbish

I have been put on Flucloxacillin for what may or may not be an infection under my toenail (my GP decided this from a photo on an e-consultation, but the team at Southampton agreed that it's best to be on the safe side as I approach my intensive chemotherapy).
I have been put on Flucloxacillin for what may or may not be an infection under my toenail (my GP decided this from a photo on an e-consultation, but the team at Southampton agreed that it's best to be on the safe side as I approach my intensive chemotherapy).
Otterfield profile image
Otterfield
in MPN Voice
11 months ago

What is ‘SICK’ as in sick day rules?

My GP phoned that afternoon and said she would leave me a prescription for FLUCLOXACILLIN to be taken 4 times daily. If it was no better by the day I take Methotrexate (Wed) I should omit it.
My GP phoned that afternoon and said she would leave me a prescription for FLUCLOXACILLIN to be taken 4 times daily. If it was no better by the day I take Methotrexate (Wed) I should omit it.
PMRGCA19 profile image
PMRGCA19
in PMRGCAuk
11 months ago

Antibiotics while on EOD B12 injections

Has anyone had any experience of antibiotic (specifically Flucloxacillin) while having EOD or daily B12 injections? I’m on a course of oral antibiotics for a minor infection but it doesn’t seem to be clearing.
Has anyone had any experience of antibiotic (specifically Flucloxacillin) while having EOD or daily B12 injections? I’m on a course of oral antibiotics for a minor infection but it doesn’t seem to be clearing.
jeremycat_ profile image
jeremycat_
in Pernicious Anaemia Society
8 months ago

Foot and calf

Well after the surgery and trying to do everything right I now have got an infection in my calf saw gp this morning I’m on 500mg flucloxacillin antibacterial wash and cream gps ringing me tomorrow been sooo poorly 😖
Well after the surgery and trying to do everything right I now have got an infection in my calf saw gp this morning I’m on 500mg flucloxacillin antibacterial wash and cream gps ringing me tomorrow been sooo poorly 😖
Deejojo profile image
Deejojo
in NRAS
1 year ago

Flucloxacillin

I’m taking Flucloxacillin 4x daily for a infection, the first day I was absolutely fine and my first 2 doses today were fine, after my third today I feel really nauseous to the point if I went through to the bath room I’m almost certain I would throw up. Should I call my Dr is this normal?
I’m taking Flucloxacillin 4x daily for a infection, the first day I was absolutely fine and my first 2 doses today were fine, after my third today I feel really nauseous to the point if I went through to the bath room I’m almost certain I would throw up. Should I call my Dr is this normal?
Healthanxietygirlxo profile image
Healthanxietygirlxo
in Anxiety and Depression Support
1 year ago

Flucloxacillin

I’m taking Flucloxacillin 4x daily for a infection, the first day I was absolutely fine and my first 2 doses today were fine, after my third today I feel really nauseous to the point if I went through to the bath room I’m almost certain I would throw up. Should I call my Dr is this normal?
I’m taking Flucloxacillin 4x daily for a infection, the first day I was absolutely fine and my first 2 doses today were fine, after my third today I feel really nauseous to the point if I went through to the bath room I’m almost certain I would throw up. Should I call my Dr is this normal?
Healthanxietygirlxo profile image
Healthanxietygirlxo
in Anxiety Support
1 year ago

Flucloxacillin Dosage with toe infection

Hi I’ve been told to take 2x500mg Flucloxacillin 4 times a day for 5 days as I have an infected toe, is this too much? it’s 4000mg a day? I’m sure my doctor wouldn’t give me something that wasn’t safe but with severe health anxiety I’m worried incase this is a huge amount.
Hi I’ve been told to take 2x500mg Flucloxacillin 4 times a day for 5 days as I have an infected toe, is this too much? it’s 4000mg a day? I’m sure my doctor wouldn’t give me something that wasn’t safe but with severe health anxiety I’m worried incase this is a huge amount.
gege31xo profile image
gege31xo
in Pain Concern
1 year ago

Flucloxacillin

I have been prescribed flucloxacillin but seem to have developed a red mouth at the back in to my throat is this a normal side effect .Also at the back of my tongue?
I have been prescribed flucloxacillin but seem to have developed a red mouth at the back in to my throat is this a normal side effect .Also at the back of my tongue?
Jessicakitty profile image
Jessicakitty
in PMRGCAuk
1 year ago

Infected leg wound

So far Flucloxacillin has not made any difference. Started course 24 hours ago. Picking up Cephalexin from chemist tomorrow to start if no effect after 48 hours. Anyone else had this happen? Dr mentioned IV penicillin in passing . Everything crossed that leg starts to improve overnight.
So far Flucloxacillin has not made any difference. Started course 24 hours ago. Picking up Cephalexin from chemist tomorrow to start if no effect after 48 hours. Anyone else had this happen? Dr mentioned IV penicillin in passing . Everything crossed that leg starts to improve overnight.
Sewing19 profile image
Sewing19
in British Heart Foundation
1 year ago

Prophylaxis Bronchiectasis

Hello everyone, can anyone advise on how successful Flucloxacillin has been as a prophylaxis against staph? I’ve now on this twice a day. My normal other one is Colomycin for pseudomonas. Thank you 🌺🌸
Hello everyone, can anyone advise on how successful Flucloxacillin has been as a prophylaxis against staph? I’ve now on this twice a day. My normal other one is Colomycin for pseudomonas. Thank you 🌺🌸
Annie04 profile image
Annie04
in Lung Conditions Community Forum
1 year ago

Finished my Flucloxacillin course.

Following a chest Infection & hospital stay then release, I completed a course of Flucloxacillin tablets, (4 x 2, 55mG per day), yesterday. Last night I was obliged to get up & go to the loo for a wee about every 1 1/2 hours - a lot more than usual.
Following a chest Infection & hospital stay then release, I completed a course of Flucloxacillin tablets, (4 x 2, 55mG per day), yesterday. Last night I was obliged to get up & go to the loo for a wee about every 1 1/2 hours - a lot more than usual.
Hidden profile image
Hidden
in PMRGCAuk
1 year ago
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