Generic
Linezolid
44 brands available in the market
At a glance
Linezolid is an antibiotic used in the treatment of severe bacterial infections. It is effective for lung infections (pneumonia), skin and soft tissue infections, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus infections.
Description
Linezolid is a synthetic antibacterial agent belonging to the oxazolidinone class. It binds to the 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome and prevents the formation of a functional 70S initiation complex, an essential component of bacterial protein synthesis. It exhibits activity against Gram-positive aerobic bacteria, some Gram-positive anaerobic bacteria, and certain Gram-negative bacteria.
Indications
- Nosocomial pneumonia
- Community-acquired pneumonia
- Complicated skin and skin structure infections (including diabetic foot infections)
- Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections
- Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium infections
Therapeutic class
Macrolides
Pharmacological class
Oxazolidinone Antibiotic
Pharmacology
Linezolid binds to the 23S rRNA of the 50S ribosomal subunit to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis, preventing bacterial growth.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis to stop bacterial growth.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral/IV):
- Nosocomial pneumonia, Community pneumonia, Complicated skin infections: 600 mg every 12 hours, 10-14 days
- Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus: 600 mg every 12 hours, 14-28 days
- MRSA infections: 600 mg twice daily, 7-21 days
- Uncomplicated skin infections: 400 mg every 12 hours, 10-14 days
Pediatric Dose: Pneumonia/Complicated: 30 mg/kg/day divided q8h; Uncomplicated: <5 years 30 mg/kg/day q8h, 5-11 years 20 mg/kg/day q12h
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- May be taken with or without food
- IV infusion: Administer over 30-120 minutes
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nausea
- Oral moniliasis
- Vaginal moniliasis
- Hypertension
- Dyspepsia
- Tongue discoloration
Precautions & warnings
- Monitor complete blood counts weekly if using for more than 2 weeks
- Prompt ophthalmic evaluation if visual disturbances occur (blurred vision, color vision changes)
- Avoid large quantities of tyramine-rich foods (cheese, processed meats, alcohol, soy sauce)
- Do not use with MAO inhibitors, SSRIs, TCAs, triptans (risk of serotonin syndrome)
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Linezolid or any components
- Patients taking MAO A or B inhibitors or within 2 weeks
- Uncontrolled hypertension, pheochromocytoma, thyrotoxicosis, carcinoid syndrome
Drug interactions
- Rifampicin and phenytoin may reduce serum levels
- May cause hypoglycemia with insulin or oral antidiabetics
- May increase seizure risk with tramadol
- Increased risk of serotonin syndrome with MAOIs, TCAs, SNRIs, or other serotonergic drugs (potentially fatal)
Food interactions
Alcohol consumption with Linezolid is unsafe; avoid tyramine-rich foods.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Linezolid has limited data in pregnancy (Category C); use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Linezolid is present in breast milk; monitor breastfed infant for diarrhea and vomiting.
Pediatric use
Pediatric doses are established (birth to 11 years); special dosing for neonates less than 7 days.
Geriatric use
No dose adjustment needed in elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Safe in kidney disease; no dose adjustment needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in severe liver disease; no dose adjustment in mild-moderate liver disease.
Overdose effects
No overdose cases reported; symptomatic and supportive care; ~30% removed by 3 hours hemodialysis.
Storage conditions
Store at 15-30°C, away from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Linezolid