Linezolid

Generic Name : Linezolid

TradeName : Zyvox

Overview : Linezolid is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body.

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Linezolid used in treatment of different types of bacterial infections like pneumonia, skin infections, and infections that are resistant to other antibiotics
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When it is not to be taken (Contraindications) : Before taking linezolid, consult your doctor if you have high BP, a thyroid or adrenal gland disorder, kidney or liver disease or a bone marrow suppression. If you are taking any medicine for depression then consult your doctor about taking linezolid.. Eating tyramine while you are taking linezolid may increase your blood pressure to higher levels.

When it is to be taken : Linezolid is used in treatment of adults with serious bacterial infections that are often resistant to other antibiotics. Linezolid is an oxazolidinone antibiotic which works by interfering with synthesis of proteins needed by bacteria to grow.

How it should be taken : Linezolid should be used as directed by your doctor. • Take Linezolid orally with or without food. If you fell stomach upset ,then take with food to reduce stomach irritation. • For complete recovery from infection, take Linezolid for the full course of treatment.

Special Instruction :
• Linezolid can cause dizziness which may worsen if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. • Long-term or repeated use of Linezolid may lead to secondary infection. Consult your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. • Mild to moderate diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) may rarely occur with linezolid. • Linezolid may cause thrombocytopenia (ie decreased number of platlets in blood). • Linezolid only works against bacterial infection and it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold). • Use Linezolid with extreme caution in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

Side Effects :
The common side effects with linezolid were Bad taste in mouth; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; headache; nausea; tongue discoloration; trouble sleeping; vomiting. Serious side effects were Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); agitation; bloody stools; bloody vomit; chills; excitation; fast heartbeat; loss of coordination; muscle spasms; prolonged or repeated nausea or vomiting; seizures; severe or continuing diarrhea; sore throat or fever; stomach pain/cramps; sweating;

Drug Interactions :
Linezolid may interact with Adrenergic drugs such as dopamine, epinephrine and effects may be enhanced by linezolid in Serotonergic agents (eg, fluoxetine)

Storage Conditions :
Oral Tablets should be stored and reconstituted suspension at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F). Discard any unused reconstituted suspension after 21 days. Injection Store IV infusion bags at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F). Protect the infusion bags from freezing and excess light.