Trade names Bactocill MedlinePlus a685020 PubChem CID 6196 | AHFS/Drugs.com Monograph CAS Number 66-79-5 | |
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ATC code J01CF04 (WHO) QJ51CF04 (WHO) | ||
Oxacillin sodium (trade name Bactocill) is a narrow-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic of the penicillin class developed by Beecham.
Contents
Uses
Oxacillin is a penicillinase-resistant β-lactam. It is similar to methicillin, and has replaced methicillin in clinical use. Other related compounds are nafcillin, cloxacillin, dicloxacillin, and flucloxacillin. Since it is resistant to penicillinase enzymes, such as that produced by Staphylococcus aureus, it is widely used clinically in the US to treat penicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. However, with the introduction and widespread use of both oxacillin and methicillin, antibiotic-resistant strains called methicillin-resistant and oxacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA/ORSA) have become increasingly prevalent worldwide. MRSA/ORSA is treated using vancomycin.
Adverse effects
Side effects include hypersensitivity and local reactions. In high doses, renal, hepatic, or nervous system effects can occur.