Linezolid
Generic Details
Generic Name
Linezolid
Other Names
- Zyvox
Drug Class
- Oxazolidinone Antibiotic
Chemical Formula
C16H20FN3O4
Molecular Weight
337.35 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit
Indications
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Pneumonia
- Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium infections
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablets
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- 600 mg every 12 hours (oral or IV)
Pediatric Dosage
- 10 mg/kg every 12 hours for children over 5 years
Geriatric Dosage
- No adjustment required in renal impairment, but caution in hepatic impairment
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Thrombocytopenia
- Peripheral neuropathy
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to linezolid
Pregnancy Category
- C
Lactation Safety
- Use with caution
Drug Interactions
- Serotonergic drugs (increased risk of serotonin syndrome)
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypertension
- Confusion
- Vomiting
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, symptomatic treatment recommended
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Distributes well into tissues and fluids
- Metabolism: Primarily hepatic
- Excretion: Mainly excreted unchanged in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor for myelosuppression
- Monitor blood pressure
Warnings
- May increase serotonin levels if used with other serotonergic agents