Floxacillin Associated Liver Toxicity

Flucloxacillin is used to treat bacterial infections such as ear infections, skin infections, bone infections, and heart and chest infections. It works by killing the bacteria causing the infection.

Common adverse drug reactions associated with the use of flucloxacillin include: diarrhoea, nausea, rash, urticaria, pain and inflammation at injection site, superinfection (including candidiasis), allergy, and transient increases in liver enzymes and bilirubin.

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is an important cause of serious liver disease. DILI can develop following the use of many drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter, through a variety of mechanisms. The antimicrobial agent flucloxacillin is a common cause of DILI. Many patients with DILI have no symptoms. Those who are symptomatic may report malaise, low-grade fever, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, right upper quadrant pain, jaundice, acholic stools, or dark urine. In severe cases, hepatic encephalopathy may develop, indicating acute liver failure. Patients with chronic DILI may go on to develop significant fibrosis or cirrhosis.

Related to:
Floxapen,