Linezolid

About linezolid

Linezolid works by stopping the growth of certain types of bacteria.

Before taking linezolid

Before taking linezolid make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you have ever had to take medication to treat depression.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you suffer from liver, kidney or thyroid problems.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you have ever had a seizure (fit).
• If you suffer from any of the following conditions: phaeochromocytoma, carcinoid syndrome, schizophrenia, mental confusion or other mental health problems, anaemia or any other blood problems.
• Linezolid is not normally used in children and adolescents (under 18 years old).

How to take linezolid

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Linezolid is usually taken twice a day in doses twelve hours apart.
• Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Take your next dose 12 hours after that and repeat every 12 hours as normal. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate.
• Take linezolid with food either before, during or after a meal.
• Linezolid may react with a substance called tyramine that is in some foods to cause an increase in blood pressure. While you are taking linezolid avoid eating mature cheese, yeast extracts (e.g. Marmite, Bovril), game, pickled herring or soya bean extracts (e.g. soy sauce). Also, avoid drinking alcohol, especially draught beers and wine.
• If you get a persistent throbbing headache after eating or drinking, tell your doctor straight away.
• A course of treatment usually lasts 10 - 14 days, but may be up to 28 days.
• You may need to have some blood tests during treatment with linezolid.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside linezolid.
• Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of linezolid. If you stop taking this medicine too soon your infection is likely to return and could be more difficult to treat.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking linezolid.
• If you have any medical tests, tell the person carrying out the test that you are being treated with linezolid.
• Some people develop thrush after taking a course of antibiotics. If you think you have thrush speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking linezolid. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) while you are taking linezolid and for at least seven days after your course of linezolid has finished. If these seven days run into a 'pill-free' week, start taking the next packet of contraceptives without leaving a break. If you are taking the type of contraceptive pill that is taken every day or if you need any further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Can linezolid cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

If you have a skin reaction such as red, sore or flaking skin, itching or swelling around the face and neck, stop taking linezolid and contact your doctor as soon as possible.
If you experience any new eyesight problems while taking linezolid, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store linezolid

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines