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Linezolid |
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What is Linezolid and why is it prescribed? Linezolid is a member of a new class of antibiotics called oxazolidinones. Linezolid is used to treat certain types of pneumonia, some forms of skin infection, and infections involving certain strains of a germ called Enterococcus faecium. Antibiotic treatment can cause a type of diarrhea that, in rare cases, becomes extremely severe. If you develop diarrhea after starting Linezolid, be sure to notify your doctor immediately. How should you take Linezolid? Follow your doctors directions for taking Linezolid. Linezolid should be taken twice a day, every 12 hours, until the prescription is finished. Do not stop taking Linezolid when you start to feel better. If you discontinue it too soon, surviving germs may cause a relapse. Linezolid may be taken with or without food. If you are taking the liquid formulation of Linezolid, gently mix it before each use by turning the bottle upside down and upright 3 to 5 times. Do not shake the bottle. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Both Linezolid tablets and Linezolid liquid can be stored at room temperature. Keep the bottles tightly closed and protect from light and moisture. The liquid formulation should be used within 21 days. Are there any Linezolid side effects? Linezolid side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Linezolid side effects may include diarrhea, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Less common and rare Linezolid side effects may include changes in taste, constipation, dizziness, fever, fungal infection of the mouth, insomnia, itching, rash, tongue discoloration, and vaginal infection. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Linezolid? If Linezolid is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Linezolid with Serotonin-boosting antidepressants (such as Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft, as well as other antidepressants such as Elavil and Tofranil), Decongestants (such as Sudafed and Entex), or Over-the-counter cold medicines and cough syrups that contain pseudoephedrine. While taking Linezolid, it's important to avoid eating large amounts of foods that contain a chemical called "tyramine." Food products high in tyramine include aged cheese, fermented or air-dried meats such as dry sausage, sauerkraut, soy sauce, red wine, tap beers, and any protein-rich food that has been improperly refrigerated. Are there any special warnings about Linezolid? If you need to take Linezolid for more than two weeks, your doctor will perform blood tests to check for blood abnormalities. Blood tests are also needed if you tend to bleed easily or are taking medications that increase your chance of bleeding. Let the doctor know if you have high blood pressure. Linezolid has not been tested under these conditions. If you have a condition called phenylketonuria and must avoid the amino acid phenylalanine, it's important to know that the liquid formulation of Linezolid contains this substance. Linezolid is not recommended for children. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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