Cloxacillin is a type of penicillin antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria and is effective against beta-hemolytic streptococcal, pneumococcal, and staphylococcal infections. It is important to note that cloxacillin treats only bacterial infections and will not work for viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections. Cloxacillin is available in capsule and liquid suspension form and is taken orally as directed by a doctor. It is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after meals. Before taking cloxacillin, it is important to inform the doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or other antibiotics, including penicillin-type medications or cephalosporins, or if you have any other allergies. It is also important to inform the doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, especially if you have kidney problems. Cloxacillin may cause live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine, to not work well, so it is important to inform your healthcare professional that you are using cloxacillin before having any immunizations/vaccinations.