Zyvox Indications/Uses

Linezolid formulations are indicated in the treatment of the following infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms. Linezolid is active against Gram-positive bacteria only. Linezolid has no clinical activity against Gram-negative pathogens. Specific Gram-negative therapy is required if a concomitant Gram-negative pathogen is documented or suspected (see Precautions and Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics under Actions).
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium infections, including cases with concurrent bacteremia.
Nosocomial pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible and -resistant strains), or Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains). Combination therapy may be clinically indicated if the documented or presumptive pathogens include Gram-negative organisms.
Complicated skin and skin structure infections including diabetic foot infections, without concomitant osteomyelitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible and -resistant strains), Streptococcus pyogenes, or Streptococcus agalactiae. Linezolid has not been studied in the treatment of decubitus ulcers. Combination therapy may be clinically indicated if the documented or presumptive pathogens include Gram-negative organisms.
Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible only) or Streptococcus pyogenes.
Community-acquired pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), including cases with concurrent bacteremia, or Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains only).
Due to concerns about inappropriate use of antibiotics leading to an increase in resistant organisms, prescribers should carefully consider alternatives before initiating treatment with linezolid in the outpatient setting.
Appropriate specimens for bacteriological examination should be obtained in order to isolate and identify the causative organisms and to determine their susceptibility to linezolid. Therapy may be instituted empirically while awaiting the results of these tests. Once these results become available, antimicrobial therapy should be adjusted accordingly.