Zyvox is an antibacterial drug whose generic name is linezolid. Your doctor might prescribe Zyvox to treat several types of infection, including respiratory disorders such as pneumonia or infections in your skin. L-arginine is a natural supplement that may boost your immune system and help you fight off infection. Consult your doctor to discuss whether combining L-arginine with Zyvox is a good strategy for you.
Zyvox
Zyvox belongs to a class of antibiotics called oxazolidinones, which treat infections caused by many different types of bacteria. It acts by stopping protein production in these organisms, effectively blocking their growth. Zyvox is generally considered a safe and effective drug, although some people may develop resistance to it, while others may experience negative interactions when combining it with prescription medications such as hypertension medicines or antidepressants.
L-Arginine
L-arginine, commonly called arginine, is an amino acid that your body can manufacture in amounts sufficient for normal metabolism. Consuming arginine as a supplement may also have several benefits. It may help lower your blood pressure since it is a precursor to a vasodilator, nitric oxide, that widens arteries and lessens resistance to blood flow. Arginine also has positive effects on your immune system, potentially speeding healing of wounds or burns, helping you recover from surgery, and decreasing your risk of bacterial and viral infections. Its positive effects may be especially helpful during periods of stress or following trauma.
Evidence
Both laboratory and clinical research suggests consuming arginine may boost your immune system and help you avoid or recover from infection. In a study published in "The European Respiratory Journal" in March 2003, subjects who tested positive for tuberculosis consumed arginine or a placebo in addition to a conventional medication for four weeks. Those who took arginine had faster weight gain and quicker recovery than the placebo group. In another study published in "Diseases of the Esophagus" in 2008, subjects who consumed arginine after cancer surgery had increased numbers of disease-fighting cells of the immune system called T-cells than a group who took a placebo.
Recommendations
L-arginine is available from pharmacies and health food stores as a supplement in tablets. The usual dose is 6 to 30 grams per day. Generally considered safe and without any significant side effects, arginine may cause an allergic reaction in some people. Do not take arginine if you have a kidney disorder or if you have diabetes. Although there are no contraindications against consuming arginine in combination with Zyvox, discuss this option with your doctor to decide what is best for your situation.
References
- PubMed Health: Linezolid
- Drugs.com: L-Arginine
- MayoClinic.com: Arginine
- Drugs.com: Zyvox
- The European Respiratory Journal: Arginine as an Adjuvant to Chemotherapy Improves Clinical Outcome in Active Tuberculosis
- Diseases of the Esophagus: Enteral Immuno-Enhanced Diets With Arginine Are Safe and Beneficial for Patients Early After Esophageal Cancer Surgery
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