Cloxacillin (Philclox) 500mg Capsule 100's

Product Description:

Cloxacillin (Philclox) 500mg Capsule is a penicillin-class antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Cloxacillin works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria by interfering with the formation of their cell walls, leading to the destruction of the bacteria. It is particularly effective against penicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (commonly known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA) and other Gram-positive bacteria.

Each Philclox 500mg Capsule contains 500 mg of Cloxacillin and is available in a pack of 100 capsules. It is typically used for treating skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory infections, bone and joint infections, and urinary tract infections, among others.

Indications:

Cloxacillin (Philclox 500mg) is primarily indicated for the treatment of infections caused by penicillin-sensitive bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus strains that are resistant to other forms of penicillin, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It is effective in the treatment of:

1. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections:

   • Treatment of cellulitis, abscesses, and wound infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

2. Respiratory Tract Infections:

   • Treatment of infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis caused by susceptible bacteria.

3. Bone and Joint Infections:

   • Osteomyelitis (bone infections) and septic arthritis caused by susceptible organisms.

4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):

   • For infections of the urinary system caused by E. coli or Staphylococcus aureus.

5. Endocarditis (Heart Valve Infection):

   • For the treatment of bacterial infections of the heart lining or heart valves.

6. Other Bacterial Infections:

   • It is sometimes used to treat other conditions like gastrointestinal infections and septicemia, depending on the specific bacterial pathogen involved.

Dosage:

The dosage of Cloxacillin (Philclox 500mg) depends on the type of infection, the severity of the infection, and the individual patient’s characteristics, such as kidney function.

General Dosage:

• For Adults:

  • The typical dose is 500 mg every 6 hours (4 times a day). This may be adjusted based on the severity of the infection and the patient's response.

  • For more severe infections, doses of 1g every 6 hours (4 times a day) may be required.

• For Children (over 1 year of age):

  • The recommended dose is generally 12.5 mg/kg every 6 hours, which may be adjusted based on the infection's severity.

Special Considerations:

• Renal Impairment: In patients with kidney problems, the dose may need to be adjusted, as Cloxacillin is primarily excreted through the kidneys.

• Duration of Treatment: The length of treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection, but it typically ranges from 7 to 14 days.

Side Effects:

Like all antibiotics, Cloxacillin (Philclox) can cause side effects. Some common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Issues:

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort.

• Rash: A mild rash may occur, especially in people who are sensitive to penicillin-type drugs.

• Fever or chills.

Serious Side Effects (Less Common):

• Severe Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis):

  • Symptoms include hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing, and severe dizziness. This requires immediate medical attention.

• Clostridium difficile-associated Diarrhea (C. difficile):

  • Severe watery diarrhea may indicate an overgrowth of the bacteria C. difficile, leading to an infection in the colon. This can be severe and may require treatment with a different antibiotic.

• Liver Dysfunction:

  • Rare cases of hepatitis or jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes) have been reported. Monitor liver function tests if long-term use is required.

• Hematologic Reactions:

  • Rare instances of blood disorders, such as leukopenia (low white blood cell count) or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), can occur.

• Severe Skin Reactions:

  • Erythema multiforme (red skin rash), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis (rare but serious conditions that cause skin blistering and sloughing off).

Contraindications:

Cloxacillin (Philclox) should not be used in the following situations:

1. Hypersensitivity to Cloxacillin or Penicillin:

   • Cloxacillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic. It should not be used in individuals with a known allergy to penicillins, cephalosporins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics.

2. History of Severe Allergic Reactions:

   • If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema) to penicillin or other related antibiotics, you should avoid using Cloxacillin.

3. Liver Disease:

   • Contraindicated in patients with severe liver dysfunction. Cloxacillin is metabolized by the liver, and its use may exacerbate liver conditions.

4. Renal Impairment (Severe):

   • Use with caution in patients with severe kidney dysfunction. Dosage adjustment is needed in those with moderate renal impairment.

5. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

   • Cloxacillin is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy (Category B) but should be used only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is excreted in breast milk, so it should be used cautiously in nursing mothers.

Precautions:

• Antibiotic Resistance: Overuse of Cloxacillin can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Always complete the full course of the antibiotic as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the full course is finished.

• Superinfection: Prolonged use of Cloxacillin may lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs, the antibiotic should be discontinued, and appropriate therapy should be initiated.

• Kidney Function: Patients with preexisting kidney conditions should be closely monitored. Cloxacillin is excreted through the kidneys, and dosing may need to be adjusted for those with reduced renal function.

• Liver Function: As mentioned, liver enzymes should be monitored during prolonged treatment with Cloxacillin, especially in patients with preexisting liver disease.

Drug Interactions:

Cloxacillin (Philclox) may interact with other medications, including:

1. Methotrexate: Cloxacillin may increase the toxicity of methotrexate by interfering with its renal excretion, leading to elevated methotrexate levels.

2. Probenecid: This drug can reduce the renal excretion of Cloxacillin, leading to higher levels in the blood, which may increase the risk of side effects.

3. Oral Contraceptives: Cloxacillin may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, and alternative or additional contraception should be used.

4. Other Antibiotics: Combining Cloxacillin with other antibiotics, particularly bacteriostatic antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, macrolides), may reduce its efficacy.

Conclusion:

Cloxacillin (Philclox) 500mg Capsule is an effective antibiotic used to treat a range of bacterial infections caused by penicillin-sensitive organisms, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. It is well-tolerated in most cases but can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal disturbances, rash, and allergic reactions. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of penicillin allergies and severe liver or kidney conditions. Always follow the prescribed dosage, and if you experience any serious side effects, seek medical advice promptly.