Diclox

Diclox Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Diclox is a brand name. Its generic name is Dicloxacillin.

Introduction

Diclox is an antibiotic belonging to the penicillin family. It is used to treat bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, skin infections, and pneumonia. Diclox functions by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, thus killing the bacteria that are causing the infection. It is available as oral tablets, capsules, and as a liquid suspension.

Uses For

Diclox is used to treat bacterial infections, such as those caused by various types of streptococci (such as Streptococcus pneumoniae), staphylococci (such as Staphylococcus aureus), and other bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Diclox acts by preventing the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It does this by inhibiting the transpeptidase enzyme responsible for the formation of the cell wall peptidoglycan layer. This causes the bacteria's cell wall to weaken and become ineffective at protecting the bacteria from the environment, leading to death of the bacteria.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Diclox usually starts to work within a few hours of ingestion. The amount of time it takes for the drug to become effective depends on the particular bacteria causing the infection.

Absorption

Diclox is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with absorption ranging from 50 to 90%. The absorption of dicloxacillin is not affected by food.

Route of Elimination

Diclox is primarily eliminated by the kidneys, with an estimated 60-70% of the drug being excreted in the urine. Some of the drug is also eliminated in the bile and feces.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of dicloxacillin varies depending on the infection being treated. For the treatment of streptococcal infections, the usual suggested dosage is 125-250 mg taken every 6 hours. For the treatment of staphylococcal infections, the usual suggested dosage is 250-500 mg taken every 6 hours. For the treatment of other bacterial infections, the dosage may need to be adjusted.

Administration

Diclox can be taken orally, either as tablets or a suspension. It is typically taken every 6 hours with or without food. It is important to take dicloxacillin exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Side Effect

The most common side effects of dicloxacillin include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, rash, hives, and headaches. Serious but rare side effects include liver toxicity and a decrease in white blood cells.

Toxicity

Diclox has a low risk of toxicity when taken as directed. Overdoses of dicloxacillin can lead to nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress.

Precautions

It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as dicloxacillin may interact with other drugs. It is also important to tell your doctor about any previous allergies or medical conditions, especially if you have had liver or kidney problems.

Interactions

Diclox may interact with other medications such as probenecid, methotrexate, cimetidine, or tryptophan. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as these drugs may interact with dicloxacillin and cause serious side effects.

Disease Interaction

People with liver or kidney disease should use dicloxacillin with caution. Diclox should also be used with caution in people with intestinal conditions such as colitis.

Drug Interaction

Drugs that may interact with dicloxacillin include probenecid, methotrexate, cimetidine, and tryptophan, among others. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, as these drugs may interact with dicloxacillin.

Food Interactions

Diclox is not significantly affected by food. It is important to take it at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.

Pregnancy Use

Diclox is not known to be harmful to a fetus, but it should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of dicloxacillin with your doctor.

Lactation Use

Diclox is excreted in breast milk. It may cause unwanted side effects in breastfed infants, so it should not be used while breastfeeding unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of dicloxacillin can cause serious side effects, such as seizures, severe abdominal pain, and severe vomiting. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you believe you may have taken an overdose of dicloxacillin.

Contraindication

Diclox is contraindicated in people who are allergic to penicillin or other penicillin-like drugs. It is also contraindicated in people with a history of GI bleeding, active ulcerative colitis, or acute renal failure.

Use Direction

Diclox should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose. Avoid alcohol while taking dicloxacillin as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Storage Condition

Diclox should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep the medicine away from children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of dicloxacillin is 0.25 to 0.3 L/kg.

Half Life

The plasma half-life of dicloxacillin is approximately 1-2 hours.

Clearance

The renal clearance of dicloxacillin is 0.2 to 0.3 ml/min per kg.

Here you find in details version of Diclox

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Diclox

What is Diclox?

Diclox is an antibiotic that belongs to a class of antibiotics called Penicillin’s. It works by killing and stopping the growth of bacteria.

What is Diclox used for?

Diclox is used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as pneumonia and skin and soft tissue infections. It is also used to treat some sexually transmitted diseases.

What is the generic name for Diclox?

The generic name for Diclox is Cloxacillin.

What are the possible side effects of Diclox?

Common side effects of Diclox may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or upset, diarrhea, and unusual tiredness or weakness.

What is the dosage for Diclox?

The dosage for adults is 250-500mg every 6-8 hours. For children, the dosage is 25-50mg/kg/day in divided doses every 6- 8 hours.

Are there any interactions with other medications?

Yes, there are several interactions with other medications that may occur. Please consult with your doctor to determine if any other medications may interact with Diclox.

What should I avoid while taking Diclox?

Alcohol and other antibiotics should be avoided while taking Diclox.

Is it safe to take Diclox during pregnancy?

Yes, it is safe to take Diclox during pregnancy. However, you should consult with your doctor before taking any medication, especially during pregnancy.

Is Diclox available over the counter?

No, Diclox is not available over the counter. It is a prescription medication and must be prescribed by a doctor.

Can I take Diclox with food?

Yes, Diclox can be taken with food. However, if you find that you are having trouble taking it with food, talk to your doctor about taking it on an empty stomach.

Is Diclox safe for long-term use?

Yes, Diclox is safe for long-term use, as long as it is taken according to the doctor's instructions.

Should Diclox be taken with a full glass of water?

Yes, Diclox should be taken with a full glass of water to help it be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream.

How long does it take for Diclox to start working?

Diclox usually starts working within 24 hours of taking it. However, the duration of treatment may vary depending on the condition being treated.

How long does it take for Diclox to be fully absorbed in the bloodstream?

Diclox is typically fully absorbed in the bloodstream within 60 minutes of being taken.

Can Diclox cause diarrhea?

Yes, Diclox can cause diarrhea. If you experience diarrhea or other side effects while taking Diclox, be sure to contact your doctor.

How long will I have to take Diclox for?

The duration of treatment will depend on the type and severity of infection being treated. It is important to take Diclox for the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated.

Is Diclox more effective with food or on an empty stomach?

Diclox is equally effective with food or on an empty stomach.

Can Diclox be used to treat bacterial vaginosis?

Yes, it can be used to treat bacterial vaginosis. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any prescription medication.

Can Diclox cause drug-resistant bacteria?

Yes, Diclox can contribute to the development of drug-resistant bacteria, particularly if it is not taken as prescribed or not taken for the full course of treatment.

Is Diclox better than penicillin?

Diclox is a type of penicillin, so it is not necessarily better than penicillin. However, it is considered to be a more effective treatment for certain bacterial infections than other penicillins.

What are the common allergic reactions to Diclox?

The most common allergic reactions to Diclox are rashes, itching, hives, difficulty breathing, and/or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.

Can Diclox be taken with ibuprofen?

It is not recommended to take Diclox with ibuprofen. Check with your doctor if you are taking any other medications.

Can Diclox be used to treat urinary tract infections?

Yes, Diclox can be used to treat urinary tract infections.

Can I breastfeed while taking Diclox?

Yes, you may breastfeed while taking Diclox, but you should consult with your doctor first.

Can I take Diclox with other antibiotics?

No, it is not recommended to take Diclox in conjunction with other antibiotics, as this could lead to an increase in side effects.

Is Diclox safe for children?

Yes, Diclox is generally safe for children, but it is important to follow applicable dosages and instructions given by the child's doctor.

What happens if I miss a dose of Diclox?

If you miss a dose of Diclox, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip it and take the next dose as scheduled.

What should I do if I overdose on Diclox?

If you overdose on Diclox, seek medical attention immediately.

What Should I do if I experience any serious side effects while taking Diclox?

If you experience any serious side effects while taking Diclox, such as a rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

Can Diclox be taken with other medications?

In some cases, Diclox can be taken with other medications. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Diclox.

What should I do if I have a fever while taking Diclox?

If you have a fever while taking Diclox, it is important to contact your doctor to determine the cause. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe an additional medication to help control the fever.

Will Diclox treat a viral infection?

No, Diclox is an antibiotic that will not treat viral infections.

Is Diclox gluten-free?

Yes, Diclox is gluten-free.

Is Diclox safe for people with a history of an allergy to penicillin?

People with a history of an allergy to penicillin should use Diclox with caution and closely monitor for any allergic reactions. It is recommended to speak to your doctor before taking this medication.

Can Diclox be taken for long periods of time?

Yes, Diclox can be taken for long periods of time if it is taken as prescribed by the doctor.

What is the maximum daily dosage of Diclox?

The maximum daily dosage of Diclox should not exceed 4g per day, as this may increase the risk of side effects.