Dicloxacillin
Also known as: Dynapen, Dicloxin
> **Important**: Give this medication on an **empty stomach** (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) to ensure proper absorption. If your pet vomits or acts sick after receiving it, you may give it with a small treat or meal. * **Compliance is key**: Give exactly as prescribed and finish the entire course, even if your pet looks better. Missing doses can lead to resistant infections. * If using a reconstituted liquid suspension, keep it in the **refrigerator** and throw away any unused portion after 14 days. * Watch for signs of an allergic reaction (hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing) or severe diarrhea, and contact your veterinarian if these occur.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Localized soft tissue infections or skin infections caused by susceptible (non-beta-lactamase producers) bacteria
- Localized soft tissue infections or skin infections caused by susceptible (non-beta-lactamase producers) bacteria
- Dermatologic infections
- Recurrent skin infections
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (superinfections)
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rashes, fever, eosinophilia, anaphylaxis)
- Neurotoxicity (ataxia at very high doses)
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Tachypnea
- Dyspnea
- Edema
- Tachycardia
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to penicillins
- Septicemia, shock, or other grave illnesses (oral absorption may be significantly delayed or diminished)
- Use cautiously in patients with documented hypersensitivity to other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., cephalosporins, cefamycins, carbapenems) due to potential cross-reactivity. Do not administer systemic antibiotics orally in patients with septicemia, shock, or other grave illnesses; parenteral routes should be used.
Drug interactions
- Aminoglycosides: In vitro evidence of synergism with dicloxacillin against S. aureus strains; however, penicillins can inactivate aminoglycosides in vitro, so do not mix in the same syringe/fluid line.
- Cyclosporine: Dicloxacillin may reduce cyclosporine levels.
- Probenecid: Competitively blocks the tubular secretion of dicloxacillin, thereby increasing serum levels and serum half-lives.
- Tetracyclines: Theoretical antagonism; concurrent use is usually not recommended.
- Warfarin: Dicloxacillin may cause decreased warfarin efficacy.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dicloxacillin used for in pets?
> **Important**: Give this medication on an **empty stomach** (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) to ensure proper absorption. If your pet vomits or acts sick after receiving it, you may give it with a small treat or meal. * **Compliance is key**: Give exactly as prescribed and finish the entire course, even if your pet looks better. Missing doses can lead to resistant infections. * If using a reconstituted liquid suspension, keep it in the **refrigerator** and throw away any unused portion after 14 days. * Watch for signs of an allergic reaction (hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing) or severe diarrhea, and contact your veterinarian if these occur.
Is Dicloxacillin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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