Linezolid Information: what you need to know about monitoring for side effects
Introduction
This page provides more information about your treatment. You should read this information alongside the Manufacturer’s Patient Information Leaflet.
If you have any questions, or there is anything that is unclear, then ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain things to you.
You must always carry this information with you while receiving Linezolid and show it to any doctor, dentist, pharmacist or nurse who is treating you so that they know what medicine you are taking.
You will need to be monitored if you are receiving Linezolid for more than a week. This medicine can only be prescribed by a hospital doctor (not your GP). This medicine can only be dispensed by a hospital pharmacy (not your community pharmacy).
What is Linezolid and what are the benefits?
Linezolid is an antibiotic that is used to treat infections caused by Gram Positive organisms such as Staphylococcal infection. The main benefit of being prescribed this treatment is that it can be given to you as a tablet or liquid. This means that you may not need to have an intravenous drip to receive your antibiotic and you may be able to have part of your treatment at home.
How do I take Linezolid?
You should take it twice a day every 12 hours, for example at 8am and 8pm. You can take it before, with or after food.
How will I be monitored?
Linezolid can reduce the production of blood cells, making you susceptible to infections and anaemia. Blood tests will show if you are developing any side effects. If you are being affected your treatment will be reviewed.
Weekly blood tests
Your blood will be checked just before you start treatment and WEEKLY during treatment. You will need to return to hospital to have your blood taken. This can be with phlebotomy at the hospital or by appointment with the Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Team (OPAT) team.
Taking other medicines
Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines, herbal remedies or supplements. This includes medicines you can buy at a garage, newsagents, supermarket or chemist.
If you have any of the following symptoms tell your doctor or speak to the OPAT team immediately (contact details on front of leaflet)
- Infections including fever, chills or a sore throat
- Unexplained skin rash, ulceration or soreness of the skin
- Yellowing of the skin or generalised itching
- Bleeding gums, black tarry stools or unexpected bleeding or bruising
- Severe or recurrent diarrhoea, vomiting or stomach pain
- Any changes to your eyesight eg blurred vision, colour changes or problems with peripheral vision
Other Advice:
You should avoid drinking alcohol during your treatment with Linezolid, especially draught beers, wines.
Some food can increase your blood pressure when you are taking this medicine. You should avoid the following foods: mature or aged cheese; liver, kidney, broad beans, game; fermented or air-dried meats such as salami; yeast extracts, eg Bovril, Oxo or Marmite; fermented soya bean products, such as soy sauce; more than 500g dark chocolate; protein diet supplements; sour cream and yogurt; peanuts and some fruits (such as figs, grapes, oranges, pineapples, plums, prunes, raisins, avocados and tomatoes
If you develop a throbbing headache after eating or drinking tell your doctor.