Sometimes we get bacterial infections that are a bit more serious, aren't they? It can be difficult to control those infections with regular antibiotics. In such cases, doctors can give you a different, more specific antibiotic. Linezolid is another type of medicine that is used to kill certain types of bacteria. It is usually given as a suspension to children and some adults.
What kind of medicine is Linezolid?
Simply put, Linezolid is an antibiotic that belongs to the oxazolidinone class. Its main function is to stop the growth of certain types of harmful bacteria in the body and cure the infection.
It is important to remember that this medicine only works for bacterial infections. It will not cure viral infections like the common cold or flu. Therefore, never use this medicine without a doctor's prescription.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before your doctor prescribes Linezolid, it is important to know your complete medical history. This is because some conditions require special care when using this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Do you have these conditions? | Inform the doctor. |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Yes / No |
| High Blood Pressure | Yes / No |
| Decreased blood cell count (white blood cells, platelets, red blood cells) | Yes / No |
| Decreased sodium levels in the blood | Yes / No |
| A condition called Pheochromocytoma | Yes / No |
| A medical condition that causes seizures | Yes / No |
| Thyroid disease | Yes / No |
| Allergy to Linezolid or other medicines, foods, or dyes | Yes / No |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby | Yes / No |
| If a mother is breastfeeding her child | Yes / No |
How should I use this medicine?
The way to use this is very simple, but very important.
- Take the correct dose at the correct time: Take the medicine at the same time every day, as directed in the prescription given to you by your doctor.
- Use an accurate measuring device: Use a specially designed oral syringe, spoon, or dropper to measure this medicine. Do not measure with regular household teaspoons, as they are not accurate.
- Before or after food?: This medicine can be taken before or after food. However, if you experience stomach discomfort, it is better to take it with food.
- Complete the course: Even if you feel better, you should finish the entire course of medication until your doctor tells you to stop. Otherwise, the infection may come back.
If given to children: Doctors recommend this medicine even for newborns in some special cases. But talk to your doctor about it and follow his instructions exactly.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have accidentally taken more medicine than you think, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
This medicine is for you only. Never give your medicine to anyone else.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
Other drugs that may interact with Linezolid
This is a very important part. Linezolid can interact with some other medications. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
| Do not take with Linezolid! (DO NOT TAKE) | |
|---|---|
| Some medications for conditions such as depression and anxiety | MAOIs (e.g. Marplan, Nardil, Parnate), St. John's wort |
| Some strong painkillers | Codeine, Meperidine, Morphine, Tramadol, Tapentadol |
| Others | Fenfluramine, Methyldopa, Ozanimod, Procarbazine, stimulants for attention problems |
| Use with caution if you take these together. | |
| Birth control pills | Ask the doctor. |
| Migraine medication | Medications such as Sumatriptan and Rizatriptan. |
| Some medications for high blood pressure and heart disease | Ask the doctor. |
| Cold medicines such as Pseudoephedrine and Phenylpropanolamine | Ask the doctor. |
Possible side effects when taking the medicine
Like any medicine, Linezolid can cause some side effects. Some are common, but some require immediate attention.
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately! (Report Immediately) | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Serotonin Syndrome | Restlessness, confusion, diarrhea, fast heartbeat, muscle stiffness or tremors, high fever, sweating. |
| Severe diarrhea | If you have watery or bloody stools. (If they last more than two days, see a doctor immediately. Do not take over-the-counter medications.) |
| Vision changes | Blurred vision, feeling different than usual. |
| Problems with the limbs | Pain, numbness, or burning in the hands or feet. |
| Symptoms of low blood cell count | Difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding. |
| Seizures | Sudden convulsions. |
| These are usually not dangerous, but if they persist, tell your doctor (Report if Persistent). | |
| Diarrhea (common) | Headache |
| Nausea, vomiting | Dizziness |
How should I store the medicine?
- Keep away from children and pets.
- Store at room temperature (25°C / 77°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
- Most importantly: You need to throw away this medicine 21 days after you get it from the pharmacy, whether there is any left or not.
When disposing of unused or expired medications, consult your doctor. It may be a good idea to mix the medication with something like cat litter, soil, or coffee grounds before throwing it in the trash, put it in a bag, seal it tightly, and throw it in the trash.
Take-Home Message
- Linezolid is a medicine that is only used to treat bacterial infections. Never take it without your doctor's advice.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have.
- Take the medicine at the prescribed dose and at the prescribed time. Even if you feel better, complete the course as directed by your doctor.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe allergic reactions, vision changes, numbness in the limbs, or severe diarrhea.
- Take the medicine and discard the rest after 21 days.
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