Home Drug Guide Dicloxacillin Sodium

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Dicloxacillin Sodium

Brand Names Pathocil, Dynapen, Dycill

Classification

Therapeutic: Antibiotic, Penicillinase-Resistant Penicillin

Pharmacological: Beta-lactam antibacterial

FDA Approved Indications

Infections caused by penicillinase-producing staphylococci

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death; resistant to beta-lactamase enzymes produced by certain bacteria.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: 250-500 mg every 6 hours orally, depending on infection severity.

Pediatric: 25-50 mg/kg/day divided into 4 doses, orally.

Geriatric: Adjusted as needed based on renal function; usual adult dosing applies.

Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be necessary; consult specific guidelines.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment required.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed orally.

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues and fluids.

Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism.

Excretion: Primarily renal excretion via unchanged drug.

Half Life: approximately 1 hour.

Contraindications

Known allergy to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics.

Precautions

History of allergy to penicillins, renal impairment, monitor for Development of superinfections.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis (Serious, rare)
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Serious, rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Other beta-lactam antibiotics, probenecid, oral contraceptives.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor for allergic reactions, renal function, signs of superinfection.

Diagnoses:

Risk for allergy/anaphylaxis
Impaired renal function,

Implementation: Administer with or without food as tolerated. Monitor for adverse reactions.

Evaluation: Assess infection resolution, monitor for side effects.

Patient/Family Teaching

Take medication exactly as prescribed.
Report rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Use additional contraceptive methods while on medication if on oral contraceptives.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: None specific.

Lab Test Interference: May cause false-positive Coombs test.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hyperkalemia, bad taste.

Treatment: Supportive care,/output monitoring, administer activated charcoal if ingestion was recent, maintain hydration.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.

Stability: Stable for specified period; check expiration date.