Linezolid (By Mouth)

Linezolid (li-NE-zoh-lid)

Treats bacterial infections. This medicine is an antibiotic.

Brand Name(s):

Zyvox
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to linezolid.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You may take this medicine with or without food. If the medicine upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
• If you are using the oral liquid, gently turn the bottle upside down several times before pouring your dose. Do not shake the bottle. Measure your medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
• Take this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if you feel better. If you stop taking this medicine too soon, your infection may come back.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. You may keep the oral liquid for up to 21 days. After that, throw away any unused oral liquid.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking cold medicines, decongestants, or medicine for depression (such as trazodone, Celexa®, Effexor®, Luvox®, Paxil®, Prozac®, Serzone®, Zoloft®).
• Avoid foods or drinks that contain tyramine, such as aged cheeses, dried meats, sauerkraut, soy sauce, tap beers, or red wines.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have bone marrow problems, high blood pressure, phenylketonuria, or any other infections.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Black, tarry stools
• Severe diarrhea
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Unusual tiredness or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache
• Mild diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.