Common Side Effects of Sivextro
Sivextro (tedizolid phosphate), an antibiotic for acute bacterial skin infections, causes nausea in about 6% of patients, headache in 6%, diarrhea in 4%, and vomiting in 3%. Less frequent effects include dizziness (2%), rash (2%), and infusion-site reactions like pain or swelling (2-3%) when given IV.[1][2]
Serious Side Effects and Warnings
Rare but severe risks include:
- Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea: Can occur up to 2 months after treatment due to gut flora disruption.
- Myelosuppression: Low blood cell counts (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) in under 1%, more common with long-term use.
- Liver enzyme elevations: Seen in 3%, potentially signaling toxicity.
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Rash, itching, or anaphylaxis.
- Peripheral/optic neuropathy: Nerve damage with prolonged dosing, though less than with linezolid.
Seek immediate care for severe diarrhea, unusual bleeding, yellowing skin, vision changes, or nerve pain.[1][2][3]
Side Effects by Route of Administration
Oral and IV forms have similar profiles, but IV increases local reactions (erythema 2%, pruritus 1%). No major differences in systemic effects across 6-day courses.[2]
Who Experiences More Side Effects?
Higher rates in adults over 65 (nausea 9% vs. 5% in younger), those with kidney issues, or on interacting drugs like rifampin (reduces levels). Pediatric data limited; not studied in kids under 2.[1][3]
Sivextro vs. Linezolid Side Effects
Sivextro has lower myelosuppression and neuropathy risk than linezolid (no serotonin syndrome reports). Both share nausea/diarrhea, but Sivextro's shorter course (6 days vs. 10-14) cuts overall exposure.[2][3]
Managing and Reporting Side Effects
Most resolve after stopping. Drink fluids for diarrhea; monitor bloodwork if at risk. Report to FDA via MedWatch or 1-800-FDA-1088. Full list in prescribing info.[1]
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/205435s000lbl.pdf
[2] FDA Sivextro Prescribing Information (updated 2023)
[3] https://www.drugs.com/sfx/sivextro-side-effects.html