Zyvox

Linezolid

This antibiotic is indicated for serious bacterial infections developed to target resistant organisms and support recovery during acute illness.

Category
Antibiotics
Active ingredient
Linezolid
Supply
Pharmacy
Route
Oral use
Form
Film-coated tablet
Strengths
600mg

Zyvox details

Therapeutic class
Oxazolidinone Antibiotic
Pharmacological class
Oxazolidinone
Contraindications
hypersensitivity to linezolid; uncontrolled hypertension
Minor side effects
diarrhoea; nausea; headache
Moderate side effects
oral candidiasis; peripheral neuropathy; anaemia
Dosage forms
Film-coated tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Supply category
Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
Manufacturer
Pfizer
Onset Time
1–2 hours
Duration
12 hours
Storage instructions
Store at room temperature, protected from moisture and light.
Drug interactions
Pseudoephedrine; SSRIs; MAO inhibitors
Age restrictions
Use with caution in paediatric patients.
Precautions and warnings

regular blood monitoring recommended; avoid excessive intake of tyramine-rich foods

Serious side effects

severe blood dyscrasias, requires immediate medical attention; serotonin syndrome, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

This antibiotic is indicated for serious bacterial infections developed to target resistant organisms and support recovery during acute illness.

Mechanism of action

Linezolid inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to a site on the bacterial 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit, preventing the formation of the functional 70S initiation complex.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Not recommended unless clearly indicated. Breastfeeding: Discontinue breastfeeding during treatment.

Where this medicine is registered

  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Indonesia
  • Taiwan
  • South Korea
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • UAE
  • South Africa

About Zyvox

Zyvox is the established brand of linezolid, a medication used to manage pneumonia and skin and soft tissue infection. Produced by Pfizer, this medicine is supplied as a tablet in 600mg strength. It is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of specific bacteria that cause these infections.

Zyvox availability in Asia

Zyvox is registered across 14 markets, including Japan, the UAE and Singapore, with availability also in Hong Kong, Thailand and Malaysia. Generic linezolid, much of it made in India, is far more affordable than the original brand, providing easier access for expats and people living far from a reliable pharmacy. This product is best used under a doctor’s care.