Cloxacillin (Cloxapen, Tegopen) belongs to the penicillin family of antibiotics and is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections including skin infections resulting from streptococcus bacterium.

Cloxacillin works by stopping cell division and cell growth, thereby preventing the growth of bacteria and spread of infection.

All antibiotics, including cloxacillin, are used to treat bacterial infections only, they are not effective against viral infections.

Cloxacillin is available by prescription as a tablet to be taken orally.

Side effects can include allergic reactions. Diarrhea, mild nausea and vomiting, and rash have also been reported with the use of this medication. Notably, cloxacillin can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.

Cloxacillin is an FDA pregnancy category B medication, which means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not, however, take cloxacillin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.