What is Linezolid?
Linezolid is an antibiotic that helps the body fight bacteria. This is an MAO inhibitor as well. Zyvox brand is the brand name of the product. The drug is used to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, skin infections, and infections that have become resistant to other antibiotics. The drug works by inhibiting bacterial growth.
Linezolid Uses
Linezolid is an antibiotic that is used for the treatment of serious bacterial infections. This works by stopping the growth of bacteria. These antibiotics treat only bacterial infections. The medication won’t work for any viral infections such as common cold and flu. Using the antibiotic when not needed can cause it not to work for any future infections. Linezolid belongs to the class of medication called MAO inhibitors. This will increase the level of certain natural substances in the body that can increase the chance of various side effects and drug interactions.
Linezolid side Effects
Some of the common side effects of Linezolid are:
Some of the serious side effects of Linezolid are:
- Hives
- Blistering or peeling of skin
- Pain
- Numbness
- Unusual bleeding
- Bruising
- Change in color & vision
- Seizures
Linezolid can cause some serious side effects and can lead to some serious health problems. If you are facing any of the above serious side effects. Talk with your doctor if you are having any serious problems.
Precautions
Before taking Linezolid talk with your doctor if you are having any allergic to it or any other medications related to it. The medications may contain some inactive ingredients which will cause serious allergic reactions or some other serious problems. Before using the medications talk with your doctor if you are having any medical history such as: High blood pressure, blood/ bone marrow problems, Thyroid and seizures. Talk to your doctor if you are taking any prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, nutritional supplements and herbal products you are planning to take.
How to use Linezolid?
Linezolid is available as a tablet and an oral suspension (liquid) for oral administration. It's normally taken twice a day (every 12 hours) for 10 to 28 days, with or without food. Children who are 11 years of age or younger usually take the medication with or without food for 2 to 3 times a day at least for 10 to 28 days. The lengths of the treatment mainly depends on the type of infection that you have. Before using the oral suspension gently mix it by turning over the bottle 2 to 5 times.
Even if you feel better, keep taking linezolid until the prescription is completed. Stopping linezolid without consulting your doctor is not a good idea. Your infection may not be fully cured if you stop taking linezolid too soon or skip doses, and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
The recommended adult dose for treating pneumonia or complicated skin and skin structure infection is 600 mg. It can be also given through intravenous infusion every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days.
Skin structure infections are mainly treated with 400 to 600 mg orally every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days.
Missed Dose
As soon as you remember, take the missing dose. If it's time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. To make up for a missed dose, do not take a double dose as it will lead to severe adverse effects.
Overdose
Overdose of the medications will show various side effects like vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. In any case, if you have taken an overdose of medication then talk to your doctor immediately.
Warnings for serious Health Conditions
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies on Linezolid in pregnant women. The medication should be used by pregnant women only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Talk to your doctor before taking this medicine as it can lead to some adverse effects on the infants.
The medication can pass into the breastmilk and can cause some serious side effects to the infants. Talk to the doctor before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Storage
Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Linezolid vs Ceftriaxone
Linezolid |
Ceftriaxone |
|---|---|
| Linezolid is an antibiotic that helps the body fight bacteria. This is an MAO inhibitor as well. Zyvox brand is the brand name of the product. | Ceftriaxone is a cephalosporin antibiotic. This medication is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including those that are serious or life-threatening, such as E. coli, pneumonia, or meningitis |
| Linezolid is an antibiotic that is used for the treatment of serious bacterial infections. This works by stopping the growth of bacteria. | Ceftriaxone injection is used for the treatment of meningitis, gonorrhoea, pelvic inflammatory disease, meningitis, and infections of the lungs, ears, skin, urinary tract and blood. |
Some of the common side effects of Linezolid are:
|
Some of the common side effects of Ceftriaxone are:
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