Description

Zyvox 600mg: Indications, Benefits, Side Effects and Safety Information

Linezolid is the active ingredient in Zyvox 600mg, a prescription antibiotic medication. Linezolid is used to treat certain serious infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria. It’s in a class of antibiotics called oxazolidinones and works by preventing bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow. So it can be useful to control certain bacterial infections when a specific antibiotic is needed.

What is Zyvox 600mg used for?

Zyvox 600mg is a tablet containing Linezolid 600mg. The medicine is available in oral and intravenous form. 600mg strength may be given by doctors for specific infections such as certain types of pneumonia, complicated skin and skin-structure infections, and infections caused by vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium. Zyvox does not, however, treat all infections and is not indicated for Gram-negative infections.

Zyvox 600mg does not work for colds, the flu, or other viral infections because antibiotics only work on bacteria. Antibiotic resistance can also occur if you take antibiotics when you don’t need them.

How Zyvox 600mg Works?

Linezolid interferes with bacterial protein production. The susceptible bacteria can not grow normally. This helps the medication to fight the infection and the patient’s immune system helps them to recover. Resistance can develop, so doctors generally reserve linezolid for infections where its antibacterial activity is appropriate.

Uses Of Zyvox 600mg

Some bacterial infections that physicians may prescribe Zyvox 600mg to treat include:

• Hospital acquired pneumonia
• Pneumonia, community acquired
• Complicated skin and skin structure infections
• Some infections due to vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium

The FDA prescribing information for some of these indications recommends 600 mg every 12 hours for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. The duration of treatment depends on the infection and the patient’s clinical situation.

**Zyvox 600 mg Dose

Take Zyvox 600mg exactly as your doctor tell you to. The approved adult indications carry a labelled dose of 600 mg every 12 hours. However, the dosage may vary with the infection, the age, the formulation and the individual medical situation. Therefore, patients should not alter the dose or treatment schedule without consulting their doctor.

Linezolid (oral) may be taken with or without food. Try to take each dose at the same time each day. And do not stop short of a full course of treatment unless your doctor tells you to. Treatment stopped prematurely can result in an incomplete cure of the infection, and can also lead to resistance to antibiotics.

Potential Side Effects

Like any other medicines, Zyvox 600mg may cause side effects. The most frequently reported effects may include nausea, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, rash, or changes in blood counts. Some of the reactions need immediate medical help.

More serious risks are blood count problems, nerve problems, vision changes with long-term treatment and serotonin syndrome with some patients taking medicines that increase serotonin. If you notice any major changes in your vision, unusual bruising or bleeding, a severe rash, or any symptoms that could signal serotonin syndrome, get medical help.

Interactions with Drugs and Food

Before taking Zyvox 600mg tell your doctor or chemist about all prescription and nonprescription products, vitamins and herbal products you are taking. Linezolid can interact with drugs that affect serotonin, including some antidepressants and some pain medicines.

Linezolid may also interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Also, caution may be needed with fermented alcoholic beverages and foods that contain a lot of tyramine, since linezolid can cause an increase in blood pressure in some situations. Follow any special diet or medication instructions your health care provider gives you.

Monitoring During the Treatment

Your doctor may order blood tests during treatment, especially if treatment lasts longer than a short course. If the treatment is longer you may also need to watch for vision and nerve related symptoms. So, keep up with your medical appointments and report new or unusual symptoms as soon as possible.

Zyvox 600mg Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zyvox 600mg used for?

It is used to treat certain bacterial infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria including selected pneumonia, skin infections, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium infections.

Is Zyvox an antibiotic?

Yes. Linezolid is an oxazolidinone antibacterial drug, marketed under the brand name Zyvox.

Can I take Zyvox 600mg for flu or a cold?

No Linezolid will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu).

Can I take other drugs with Zyvox 600mg?

Linezolid can interact with some medicines, especially some antidepressants and other serotoninergic medicines. Before treatment, tell your doctor or chemist about all the medicines you take.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Use as prescribed by your prescription. Do not take a double dose of the next dose unless your health care provider tells you to do so.

Final thought

Zyvox 600mg is a vital prescription antibiotic for some bacterial infections. However, it should be used only as directed and when medically indicated. Furthermore, careful attention to drug interactions, side effects, blood monitoring and duration of treatment can help make for safer use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing your Zyvox treatment.