Side Effects of Flucloxacillin

Flucloxacillin is a prescription medication indicated to treat certain types of bacterial infections, such as lung, bone or skin infections 12. This medication is part of a class of drugs called penicillins and works by preventing bacteria from spreading through the body. As of 2010, flucloxacillin is not marketed within the United States 12. Patients should discuss the side effects of flucoxacillin with a medical professional before beginning treatment.

Digestive Upset

Digestive upset can occur as a side effect of flucloxacillin in treated patients, explains Medsafe, the New Zealand medicine and medical devices safety authority 12. Typically, digestive upset symptoms include nausea or vomiting. Certain people can also experience increased bowel movement urges that yield loose or watery stools. Eating a small meal or snack before taking a dose of flucloxacillin can help limit the severity of digestive upset side effects in certain patients 12. Patients who experience severe, chronic diarrhea or notice blood within their stools should seek medical care immediately. These severe side effects of flucloxacillin can be a sign of bowel inflammation 12.

Oral or Vaginal Thrush

This antibacterial medical can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria within the body. When this occurs, a certain type of fungus called Candida albicans can grow rapidly. This side effect of flucloxacillin can cause oral or vaginal thrush, an infection also referred to as a yeast infection, warns GlaxoSmithKline, the pharmaceutical manufacturer of this medication 123. Oral thrush symptoms include the appearance of fuzzy, white lesions within the mouth or throat and oral itching or discomfort. Women taking flucloxacillin can develop vaginal thrush, which is characterized by intense vaginal itching and unusual, thick, white vaginal discharge 12. Patients who develop either of these side effects while taking flucloxacillin should consult a doctor 12. Additional medication may be necessary to resolve these fungal infections.

Skin Rash or Discoloration

Patients taking flucloxacillin can develop skin related side effects during treatment, explain medical professionals with Patient UK 12. Affected patients can develop red, irritated patches of skin across the body. If these skin patches begin to itch or appear yellow in color, affected patients should seek care from a medical professional as soon as possible.