Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 11, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Zyvox
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet
- Powder for Suspension
Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic
Chemical Class: Oxazolidinone
Uses for linezolid
Linezolid is used to treat certain bacterial infections in many different parts of the body, including certain types of skin infections or pneumonia.
Linezolid belongs to the family of medicines called antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, linezolid will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.
Linezolid is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using linezolid
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For linezolid, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to linezolid or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of linezolid in children.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of linezolid in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more sensitive to the effects of linezolid than younger adults.
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you ...
