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Peds Calc

Parent Guide

Dicloxacillin AdministrationSafe & Effective Dosing for Children

Dicloxacillin capsules need strict timing—empty stomach dosing every 6 hours is essential for reliable MSSA coverage.

Quality Score: 8/10
2 Clinical Sources
Back to Dicloxacillin Overview

Available Forms & Concentrations

capsule Form

Children able to swallow capsules or sprinkle contents

Advantages

  • Stable supply
  • Capsules can be opened if necessary

Step-by-Step Preparation

1

Confirm dose and schedule

Review mg dose, weight-based plan, and 6-hour interval.

2

Administer on empty stomach

Give 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals with water.

3

Record doses

Use a log or phone alert to avoid missed or duplicate dosing.

Age-Specific Administration Techniques

school_ages

Method & Positioning

Method: Swallow capsule with water

Positioning: Upright seated or standing

Success Tips
  • Practice with small candies if capsule swallowing is new
  • Follow with a sip of water flavored with juice to improve taste
Common Challenges
  • Waking for overnight doses
Success Strategies
  • Set alarms; consider long-term plan to switch to cephalexin if adherence impossible

adolescents

Method & Positioning

Method: Capsule swallow or sprinkle contents

Positioning: Upright

Success Tips
  • Remind to avoid antacids or dairy within 1 hour if possible
  • Use phone scheduling apps
Common Challenges
  • Busy school schedules
Success Strategies
  • Coordinate lunchtime dose with school health office
  • Use pill organizers labeled by time

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Missed overnight dose

Solutions to Try

  • Take as soon as remembered if within 2 hours
  • Otherwise resume schedule without doubling

Prevention Tips

  • Set bedside alarms
  • Discuss alternative agents if multiple overnight doses missed

Stomach upset

Consider calling your pediatrician if this issue persists

Solutions to Try

  • Take with a small amount of bland food after discussing with prescriber
  • Consider antiemetic support

Prevention Tips

  • Ensure adequate hydration
  • Avoid acidic beverages around dosing

Safety & Storage Guidelines

Storage Requirements

Temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F)

Stability: Use until labeled expiration date

Location Tips

  • Keep bottle tightly closed
  • Store out of reach of younger siblings

Clinical Insights

No renal adjustment is needed—focus on adherence rather than dose changes in CKD.

Evidence: ReferenceSource:

Probenecid increases serum concentrations; only combine under specialist guidance.

Evidence: LabelSource:

You're Doing Great

You are providing the best care for your child. Follow your healthcare provider's guidance.

Clinical References

Dicloxacillin Sodium Capsules — DailyMedU.S. National Library of Medicine (2025)Label
Dicloxacillin Renal DosingGlobalRPh (2025)Clinical Calculator