An Introduction to Side Effects of Linezolid
Just like any medicine,
linezolid (
Zyvox®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in many cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with linezolid. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
Serious Linezolid Side Effects
Some side effects with linezolid, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
- Severe or bloody diarrhea, which may occur while taking the medication or even several months after stopping it
- Signs of anemia or other blood cell problems, such as:
- Fatigue or extreme weakness or tiredness
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- High fever, aches, and pains, which may be signs of an infection
- Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the arms, hands, legs, or feet (peripheral neuropathy)
- Problems with vision, including blurred vision, problems with color vision, or reduced visual acuity
- Rapid breathing, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, which may be signs of a serious condition called lactic acidosis (a buildup of lactic acid in the bloodstream)
- Seizures
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- An unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the mouth or throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing.