Nafcillin sodium

Nafcillin Sodium is a penicillinase-resistant penicillin often used in the treatment of bacterial infections caused by penicillinase-producing staphylococci. It is a semi-synthetic antibiotic, part of the methicillin group, and is chemically related to penicillin.

Pharmacology

Nafcillin Sodium is bactericidal - it inhibits the third and final stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis by preferentially binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) that are located inside the bacterial cell wall.

Medical Uses

Nafcillin Sodium is primarily used to treat infections caused by penicillinase-producing staphylococci. These may include septicemia, pneumonia, and skin and soft tissue infections. It is also used in the treatment of endocarditis.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Nafcillin Sodium can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as hepatitis and neutropenia.

Precautions

Patients with a history of allergic reactions to penicillin should not take Nafcillin Sodium. It should also be used with caution in patients with a history of kidney disease or gastrointestinal disease.

See Also

• Penicillin
• Methicillin
• Penicillin-binding proteins
• Bacterial cell wall

References

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