
Precautions
Linezolid treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu ). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections. Linezolid also belongs to a class of drugs known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.
What is linezolid used to treat?
Linezolid is available as a generic medication. The main use of linezolid is the treatment of severe infections caused by aerobic Gram-positive bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics; it should not be used against bacteria that are sensitive to drugs with a narrower spectrum of activity, such as penicillins and cephalosporins.
Is there a generic version of linezolid?
Common side effects of linezolid use (those occurring in more than 1% of people taking linezolid) include diarrhea (reported by 3–11% of clinical trial participants), headache (1–11%), nausea (3–10%), vomiting (1–4%), rash (2%), constipation (2%), altered taste perception (1–2%), and discoloration of the tongue (0.2–1%).
What are the side effects of linezolid?
Linezolid Tablets for oral administration contain 600 mg linezolid as a film-coated tablet. Inactive ingredients are low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose monohydrate, sodium starch glycolate, hydroxypropyl cellulose, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, titanium dioxide and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.
What are the ingredients in linezolid?
See more
What is linezolid prescribed for?
Linezolid is used to treat certain bacterial infections in many different parts of the body, including certain types of skin infections or pneumonia. Linezolid belongs to the family of medicines called antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth.
Is linezolid the same as vancomycin?
The results of this study demonstrate that linezolid therapy is well tolerated, equivalent to vancomycin in treating CSSTIs, and superior to vancomycin in the treatment of CSSTIs due to MRSA. Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are a common cause of morbidity in both the community and the hospital.
Is linezolid a broad spectrum antibiotic?
Linezolid, the first oxazolidinone to be approved for the clinical treatment of Gram-positive bacterial infections, displays a wide spectrum of in vitro activity against many important pathogens, including for instance methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant enterococci and penicillin- ...
Is linezolid a strong antibiotic?
Is linezolid a strong antibiotic? Linezolid is a 'reserve antibiotic' prescribed as a last resort to fight bacterial infections that have been resistant to other antibiotics. The fact that it can fight such antibiotic-resistant bacteria means linezolid is supremely effective against infections.
Why is linezolid preferred over vancomycin?
Authors' conclusions Linezolid seems to be more effective than vancomycin for treating people with SSTIs, including SSTIs caused by MRSA. The available evidence is at high risk of bias and is based on studies that were supported by the pharmaceutical company that makes linezolid.
Which is better vancomycin or linezolid?
American Thoracic Society/Infectious Diseases Society of America (ATS/IDSA) guidelines suggest that linezolid (LZD) is preferred over vancomycin (VCM) for treating methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pneumonia.
What should I monitor while on linezolid?
Monitoring parameters include heart rate, blood pressure, blood glucose, weekly complete blood count (CBC), and visual function. Blood pressure requires close monitoring in patients with untreated hyperthyroidism.
What medications interact with linezolid?
Some products that may interact with this drug include: diet pills/appetite suppressants (such as diethylpropion), drugs for attention deficit disorder (such as atomoxetine, methylphenidate), apraclonidine, bupropion, buspirone, carbamazepine, cyclobenzaprine, deutetrabenazine, a certain combination product ( ...
What infection does linezolid treat?
Linezolid is used to treat infections, including pneumonia, and infections of the skin . Linezolid is in a class of antibacterials called oxazolidinones. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics such as linezolid will not work for colds, flu, and other viral infections.
How long can you be on linezolid?
At the same time many adverse events (AE) have been described including anemia, thrombocytopenia, gastrointestinal effects and sometimes neuropathy, e.g. irreversible vision loss [1, 2]. Therefore, linezolid use is advised to be limited to a maximum of 28 days.
What is the strongest antibiotic for bacterial infection?
The world's last line of defense against disease-causing bacteria just got a new warrior: vancomycin 3.0. Its predecessor—vancomycin 1.0—has been used since 1958 to combat dangerous infections like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
How long does linezolid stay in system?
The elimination half-life of linezolid is 5-7 hours, and twice-daily administration of 400-600 mg provides steady-state concentrations in the therapeutic range. Linezolid is mainly cleared by non-renal clearance to two metabolites and renal clearance of the parent compound.
Why is linezolid not good for bacteremia?
Although linezolid is an option for S. aureus bacteremia, it is not FDA approved and is often not the preferred agent due to its bacteriostatic activity and large volume of distribution.
Can you use linezolid for MRSA bacteremia?
Linezolid is one of the recommended antibiotics (2); it is not approved for osteomyelitis. Linezolid is an option due to high prevalence of CA-MRSA for hospitalized patients with severe infection or whose infection is progressing despite empirical antibiotics (2).
What class of antibiotics is vancomycin?
Vancomycin is in a class of medications called glycopeptide antibiotics. It works by killling bacteria in the intestines. Vancomycin will not kill bacteria or treat infections in any other part of the body when taken by mouth.
Can linezolid be used for MRSA?
Linezolid is effective against multiple strains of MRSA and is available in an oral formulation for outpatient therapy.
What is linezolid?
Linezolid is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body. Linezolid is also an MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitor.
Where is Linezolid given?
Linezolid injection is given in a vein.
What should I avoid while using linezolid?
Avoid taking anti-diarrhea medicine without first asking your doctor. Diarrhea may be a sign of a new infection.
What other drugs will affect linezolid?
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.
How to take Linezolid?
Linezolid tablets or liquid can be taken with or without food. Gently mix the oral suspension (liquid) by turning the bottle upside down 3 to 5 times. Do not shake. Measure a dose with the supplied syringe or a dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Linezolid injection is given in a vein.
What is MAO inhibitor?
MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and others. Tell your doctor if you also take stimulant medicine, opioid medicine, herbal products, or medicine for depression, mental illness, Parkinson's disease, migraine headaches, serious infections, or prevention of nausea and vomiting.
Can linezolid cause serotonin?
An interaction with linezolid could cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. Tell your doctor if you have ever had: high blood pressure; a thyroid disorder; a carcinoid tumor; bone marrow suppression or a weak immune system; kidney or liver disease; pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor); diabetes;
What is Linezolid used for?
Linezolid is a prescription drug used as an antibiotic to treat certain serious bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
What are the side effects of linezolid?
Postmarketing side effects of linezolid reported include: superficial tooth discoloration. superficial tongue discoloration. low blood platelet count. low white blood cell count. reduced white, red, and platelet blood cell count. platelet deficiency in the blood. numbness and tingling in arms and legs. damage to the nerve of the eye.
What Other Drugs Interact with Linezolid?
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider, or pharmacist first.
How many interactions does Linezolid have?
Linezolid has mild interactions with at least 23 different drugs. This information does not contain all possible interactions or adverse effects. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use.
How many drugs does Linezolid interact with?
Linezolid has severe interactions with at least 48 different drugs. Linezolid has serious interactions with at least 112 different drugs. Linezolid has moderate interactions with at least 43 different drugs. Linezolid has mild interactions with at least 23 different drugs. This information does not contain all possible interactions ...
Is linezolid approved for gram negative bacteria?
Not approved for gram -negative bacteria or for catheter -related infections; the clinical study showed a higher mortality rate with linezolid than with other antibiotics for these conditions
Can you use Linezolid if you don't need it?
Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections. Linezolid also belongs to a class of drugs known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. It can increase the levels of certain natural substances in the body (such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and, serotonin) which can increase the chance ...
Why is Linezolid prescribed?
Why is this medication prescribed? Expand Section. Linezolid is used to treat infections, including pneumonia, and infections of the skin . Linezolid is in a class of antibacterials called oxazolidinones. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
What to do if you are allergic to linezolid?
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to linezolid, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in the linezolid product you have been prescribed. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients .
Does linezolid work for colds?
It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics such as linezolid will not work for colds, flu, and other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Can you stop taking linezolid?
Take linezolid until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not stop taking linezolid without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking linezolid too soon or if you skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
Can you refill linezolid?
Your doctor may order certain blood tests to check your body's response to linezolid. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the linezolid, call your doctor.
Can you change the dose of linezolid?
Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects. Many other medications may also interact with linezolid, so be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, even those that do not appear on this list.
Can Linezolid cause diarrhea?
If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment: severe diarrhea (watery or bloody stools) that may occur with or without fever and stomach cramps (may occur up to 2 months or more after your treatment) Linezolid may cause other side effects.
What is linezolid used for?
Linezolid is a synthetic antibacterial agent of the oxazolidinone class, which has clinical utility in the treatment of infections caused by aerobic Gram-positive bacteria. The in vitro spectrum of activity of linezolid also includes certain Gram-negative bacteria and anaerobic bacteria.
Why is linezolid used only for infections?
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of linezolid and other antibacterial drugs, linezolid should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.
How is linezolid metabolized?
Linezolid is primarily metabolized by oxidation of the morpholine ring, which results in two inactive ring-opened carboxylic acid metabolites: the aminoethoxyacetic acid metabolite (A), and the hydroxyethyl glycine metabolite (B). Formation of metabolite A is presumed to be formed via an enzymatic pathway whereas metabolite B is mediated by a non-enzymatic chemical oxidation mechanism in vitro. In vitro studies have demonstrated that linezolid is minimally metabolized and may be mediated by human cytochrome P450. However, the metabolic pathway of linezolid is not fully understood.
How long does linezolid last?
Visual blurring has been reported in some patients treated with linezolid for less than 28 days. Peripheral and optic neuropathy has also been reported in children.
How old are people who have been treated with linezolid?
Of the 2046 patients treated with linezolid in Phase 3 comparator-controlled clinical trials, 589 (29%) were 65 years or older and 253 (12%) were 75 years or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
How long does it take for a preterm neonate to get linezolid?
Neonates less than 7 days: Most pre-term neonates less than 7 days of age (gestational age less than 34 weeks) have lower systemic linezolid clearance values and larger AUC values than many full-term neonates and older infants. These neonates should be initiated with a dosing regimen of 10 mg/kg every 12 hours.
Is Linezolid a Gram negative drug?
Linezolid is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the specific conditions listed below. Linezolid is not indicated for the treatment of Gram-negative infections. It is critical that specific Gram-negative therapy be initiated immediately if a concomitant Gram-negative pathogen ...
What is the MIC of Linezolid?
Linezolid use may result in a suboptimal clinical response when treating organisms with a MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration ) of 4 mcg/ml or greater and warrants a complete ID re-assessment and change in drug therapy.
How long to infuse linezolid?
Administer linezolid IV infusion over 30 to 120 minutes. Do not mix or infuse with other medications. When using the same IV line for sequential infusion, flush the line with D5W, normal saline, or lactated Ringer's solution before and after infusing linezolid. The yellow color of the injection may intensify with time without affecting potency.
What is the first available oxazolidinone to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by interfering with?
Linezolid is the first available oxazolidinone to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by interfering with translation. Linezolid binds to a site on the bacterial 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit, which prevents the formation of a functional 70S initiation complex.[4] This activity essentially inhibits protein production and prevents bacteria from multiplying.
How long after MAO inhibitors can you take phenelzine?
Do not use within two weeks of MAO inhibitors, e.g., phenelzine.
Does Linezolid work against MRSA?
Linezolid has activity against a broad range of antimicrobial susceptible and resistant gram-positive bacteria, including activity against MRSA with intermediate resistance to glycopeptides like vancomycin.
Is Linezolid a substitute for vancomycin?
Linezolid’s primary place in therapy is an alternative to vancomycin in inpatient settings. Vancomycin remains a standard treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection. However, vancomycin- resistant isolates of S. aureus have emerged, and there are increasing reports of vancomycin-resistant isolates worldwide. Alternative treatment agents merit consideration before using linezolid in outpatient settings, as inappropriate use has led to an increase in linezolid-resistant vancomycin-resistant enterococci. [1]
Is Linezolid an antibiotic?
Linezolid is a synthetic oxazolidinone antimicrobial drug. It is indicated for gram-positive infections and approved for the treatment of bacterial pneumonia, skin and skin structure infections, and VRE infections, including infections complicated by bacteremia. Linezolid does not have approval for the treatment of gram-negative infections, catheter-related bloodstream infections, or catheter site infections.
What is the compound linezolid?
Linezolid is an organofluorine compound that consists of 1,3-oxazolidin-2-one bearing an N-3-fluoro-4- (morpholin-4-yl)phenyl group as well as an acetamidomethyl group at position 5.
What is linezolid used for?
Linezolid is an oxazolidinone class antibiotic that is used for serious or problematic infections caused by resistant enterococcal or staphylococcal organisms . Prolonged therapy with linezolid has been linked to rare instances of lactic acidosis and liver injury probably as a result of hepatic mitochondrial toxicity.
What enzyme is responsible for oxidative metabolism of linezolid?
In vitro studies were conducted to identify the hepatic enzyme (s) responsible for the oxidative metabolism of linezolid. In human liver microsomes, linezolid was oxidized to a single metabolite, hydroxylinezolid (M1). Formation of M1 was determined to be dependent upon microsomal protein and NADPH.
What are the organisms that are susceptible to linezolid?
Susceptible organisms include methicillin - and vancomycin -resistant staphylococci, vancomycin -resistant enterococci, penicillin -resistant pneumococci and anaerobes.
Where is linezolid excreted?
Linezolid and its metabolites are excreted in the milk of lactating rats. Concentrations in milk were similar to those in maternal plasma. It is not known whether linezolid is excreted in human milk.
Is linezolid an antibiotic?
Linezolid is a synthetic antibacterial agent of the oxazolidinone class of antibiotics. It has in vitro activity against aerobic Gram positive bacteria, certain Gram negative bacteria and anaerobic microorganisms. It selectively inhibits bacterial protein synthesis through binding to sites on the bacterial ribosome and prevents the formation of a functional 70S-initiation complex. Specifically, linezolid binds to a site on the bacterial 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit and prevents the formation of a functional 70S initiation complex, which is an essential component of the bacterial translation process. The results of time-kill studies have shown linezolid to be bacteriostatic against enterococci and staphylococci. For streptococci, linezolid was found to be bactericidal for the majority of strains. Linezolid is also a reversible, nonselective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase. Therefore, linezolid has the potential for interaction with adrenergic and serotonergic agents.
Is linezolid tolerated?
Linezolid was well tolerated and the frequency of drug-related adverse events was similar between the linezolid and placebo groups. Oral and intravenous linezolid exhibit linear pharmacokinetics, with concentrations remaining above the target MIC90 /minimal inhibitory concentration/ for most of the dosing interval.

Medical uses
Linezolid is an antibiotic used to treat certain serious bacterial infections.
May Treat: Staphylococcus aureus skin and skin structure infection · Staphylococcus nosocomial pneumonia · Bacterial infection · Complicated skin and skin structure S. aureus infection · Complicated skin structure S. agalactiae infection and more
Brand Names: Zyvox
Drug Class: Oxazolidinone Antibiotics
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
May Treat: Staphylococcus aureus skin and skin structure infection · Staphylococcus nosocomial pneumonia · Bacterial infection · Complicated skin and skin structure S. aureus infection · Complicated skin structure S. agalactiae infection and more
Brand Names: Zyvox
Drug Class: Oxazolidinone Antibiotics
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
Lactation: Consult a doctor before using
Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution
Administration
Treatment
Diet
Risks
- Linezolid is used to treat infections, including pneumonia, and infections of the skin . Linezolid is in a class of antibacterials called oxazolidinones. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Prevention
- Linezolid comes as a tablet and oral suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food twice a day (every 12 hours) for 10 to 28 days. Children 11 years of age and younger usually take linezolid with or without food two to three times a day (every 8 to 12 hours) for 10 to 28 days. The length of your treatment depends on the type of infection you have. Follo…
Diagnosis
- Take linezolid until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not stop taking linezolid without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking linezolid too soon or if you skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
Preparation
- Avoid eating or drinking large amounts of foods and beverages containing tyramine while taking linezolid. Foods and beverages that have been pickled, smoked, or fermented usually contain tyramine. These foods and beverages include alcoholic beverages, especially beer, Chianti, and other red wines; alcohol-free beer; cheeses (especially strong, aged, or processed varieties); sau…