Why is this medication prescribed?

Nafcillin injection is a type of antibiotic medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as penicillinase-resistant penicillins. It is primarily prescribed to treat bacterial infections caused by certain strains of staphylococci bacteria, including infections of the skin, bones, joints, respiratory tract, and bloodstream. Nafcillin is particularly effective against staphylococcal infections that are resistant to other forms of penicillin.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Nafcillin injection is typically used:

• Administration: Nafcillin is administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM) by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting such as a hospital or outpatient clinic.
• Dosage: The dosage of Nafcillin can vary depending on the severity of the infection, the patient’s age, weight, and overall health, as well as the specific strain of bacteria causing the infection. It is crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare provider.
• Frequency: Nafcillin is usually given every 4 to 6 hours, with the exact frequency determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual patient’s condition.
• Duration: The duration of treatment with Nafcillin can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. It’s essential to complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished, to prevent the infection from recurring or becoming resistant to the antibiotic.
• Monitoring: Patients receiving Nafcillin should be closely monitored for any signs of allergic reactions or adverse effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or rash. If any adverse reactions occur, patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
• Storage: Nafcillin injection should be stored according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer, typically at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

It’s important to note that Nafcillin injection should only be used as prescribed by a healthcare professional and should not be shared with others or used to treat any other condition not approved by a doctor. Additionally, it’s essential to complete the full course of medication as directed, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses for Nafcillin injection may include:

• Treatment of certain bacterial endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves) caused by susceptible organisms.
• Management of infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), although other antibiotics may be preferred depending on the severity and type of infection.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when using Nafcillin injection include:

• Allergy: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a known allergy to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, as Nafcillin belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics.
• Renal Impairment: Patients with kidney impairment may require dose adjustments or monitoring while using Nafcillin. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage based on your kidney function.
• Liver Dysfunction: Nafcillin is primarily eliminated through the liver. Patients with liver dysfunction may require dose adjustments or closer monitoring for potential adverse effects.
• Blood Clotting Disorders: Nafcillin may interfere with certain laboratory tests for blood clotting function, leading to false results. Inform your healthcare provider if you are undergoing any blood clotting tests while using Nafcillin.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Nafcillin during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered and weighed against potential risks and benefits.
• Drug Interactions: Nafcillin may interact with other medications, including certain anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, and other antibiotics. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your liver function, kidney function, and blood cell counts while you are receiving Nafcillin treatment.

It’s essential to follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the use of Nafcillin injection, including dosage, frequency, and duration of treatment, to ensure safe and effective therapy. If you have any questions or concerns about using Nafcillin injection, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Nafcillin injection. However, it’s essential to follow a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated to support your body’s immune system and overall health during the course of antibiotic treatment.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Nafcillin, it’s important to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Nafcillin injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not all people will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Nafcillin injection may include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rash or itching
• Pain or inflammation at the injection site (with intravenous or intramuscular administration)
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fever or chills
• Changes in taste
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Heartburn

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. These may include:

• Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction) characterized by difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and hives
• Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, which are rare but potentially life-threatening conditions characterized by severe blistering, peeling, and skin rash
• Severe diarrhea or colitis (inflammation of the colon) caused by Clostridium difficile bacteria, which can be life-threatening in severe cases
• Liver problems, including hepatitis or liver failure, characterized by symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, or unusual tiredness

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Nafcillin injection, or if you develop signs of an allergic reaction or serious skin reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider, as they can help determine whether the benefits of continued treatment outweigh the risks and may recommend adjustments to your medication regimen if necessary. Additionally, do not discontinue Nafcillin without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you experience side effects, as this can lead to incomplete treatment of the underlying bacterial infection.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Nafcillin Injection:

Storage:

• Store Nafcillin Injection as directed by the manufacturer’s instructions, typically at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Do not freeze Nafcillin Injection.
• Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.
• Discard any unused portion of the medication after the prescribed treatment course is completed.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Nafcillin Injection properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
• Do not flush Nafcillin Injection down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Consult your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local waste disposal authority for guidance on how to dispose of Nafcillin Injection safely and appropriately.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose of Nafcillin Injection or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Contact a poison control center or emergency room for further guidance on managing the overdose.
• Be prepared to provide information about the amount of medication taken, the timing of ingestion, and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up during the course of Nafcillin Injection treatment.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Nafcillin may interact with certain medications.
• Complete the full course of Nafcillin Injection treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better before the medication is finished.
• Do not share Nafcillin Injection with others, even if they have similar symptoms or conditions.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Nafcillin Injection or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information and guidance.