Nafcillin

Pronounced naf-SIL-in

Brand names: Nafcil

Type: Penicillin antibiotic (anti-staphylococcal) · All Antibiotics & Infection Medicines

What Nafcillin is used for

  • Serious staph infections in hospital
  • Heart valve, bone, and bloodstream infections from staph (hospital)

◆ Kidney note

Kidney function is monitored during treatment, as inflammation of the kidneys is a rare side effect.

Common side effects

  • Pain or vein irritation at the infusion site
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Rash

Important cautions

  • True penicillin allergy can be life-threatening — always tell your care team about any past reaction
  • Used in hospital with monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidneys

How it comes

Injection (hospital). This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.

Toxicity lists: Nafcillin also appears on Medicines That Can Harm the Kidneys.

Related medicines — Antibiotics & Infection Medicines

Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.