Zyvox
® (
linezolid) is an antibiotic licensed to treat a variety of serious infections. This medication comes in tablet, oral liquid suspension, and intravenous (IV) injectable forms. Specifically, this drug is approved to treat the following infections:
- Certain pneumonia infections
- Certain skin and soft tissue infections
- Infections caused by the bacteria Enterococcus faecium when the bacteria are resistant to the antibiotic vancomycin (Vancocin®).
Keep in mind that Zyvox will not work for the
common cold or other viral infections. This medication is approved for treating infections only when they are caused by certain types of bacteria.
Zyvox is generally taken twice a day, with about 12 hours between doses. For this drug to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not miss a dose or stop taking it earlier than your healthcare provider recommends, even if you are feeling better. Doing so may lead to bacterial resistance.
The most common side effects reported with Zyvox include
diarrhea, nausea, and
headache. However, most people tolerate it well, without problems.
(For more information on this medication, click Zyvox. This article takes an in-depth look at who can take it, how it works, and why this drug may not be suitable for everyone.)