Oxacillin
Also known as: Bactocill
> **Important Dosing Schedule**: This medication is eliminated from the body very quickly and must be given exactly as prescribed (usually every 8 hours) to remain effective. * **Administration**: Give this medication on an **empty stomach**, at least 1 hour before feeding or 2 hours after a meal, unless your veterinarian instructs otherwise. * **Storage**: Keep the oral liquid suspension in the **refrigerator**. Discard any unused medication after 14 days. * **Side Effects**: Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Contact your veterinarian if these occur or if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing).
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
- Susceptible infections
- Susceptible infections
- Susceptible infections
- Susceptible infections
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhea and superinfections
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, fever, eosinophilia, anaphylaxis)
- Neurotoxicity (ataxia, CNS effects at very high doses)
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Tachypnea
- Dyspnea
- Edema
- Tachycardia
Cautions & contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to penicillins
- Oral administration in patients with septicemia, shock, or other grave illnesses (due to delayed/diminished GI absorption)
- Use cautiously in patients with documented hypersensitivity to other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., cephalosporins, carbapenems) due to potential cross-reactivity. Safe use during pregnancy is not firmly established, though it is generally considered safe (Papich Class A / FDA Category B). May cause diarrhea, candidiasis, or allergic responses in nursing offspring as it is excreted in maternal milk.
Drug interactions
- Aminoglycosides: In vitro evidence of synergism against S. aureus strains; however, mixing in the same syringe/fluid line can cause physical inactivation.
- Cyclosporine: Oxacillin may reduce cyclosporine serum levels.
- Probenecid: Competitively blocks the tubular secretion of oxacillin, thereby increasing serum levels and prolonging serum half-life.
- Tetracyclines: Theoretical antagonism (bacteriostatic drugs may interfere with bactericidal action of penicillins); concurrent use is usually not recommended.
- Warfarin: Oxacillin may cause decreased warfarin efficacy.
Frequently asked questions
What is Oxacillin used for in pets?
> **Important Dosing Schedule**: This medication is eliminated from the body very quickly and must be given exactly as prescribed (usually every 8 hours) to remain effective. * **Administration**: Give this medication on an **empty stomach**, at least 1 hour before feeding or 2 hours after a meal, unless your veterinarian instructs otherwise. * **Storage**: Keep the oral liquid suspension in the **refrigerator**. Discard any unused medication after 14 days. * **Side Effects**: Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Contact your veterinarian if these occur or if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing).
Is Oxacillin 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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