Antimicrobials
Linezolid

Linezolid

Restricted

Low
Excellent

Dosing

General Information

Targeted or empiric therapy for gram positive infections including skin and soft tissue, and pneumonia.

Covers MRSA and VRE.

CBC at least once/week.

Visual testing for therapy >3 months or if symptoms develop on therapy.

  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Rash
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Lactic acidosis
  • Myelosuppression (usually with >2 weeks therapy) - reversible
  • Peripheral/optic neuropathy with prolonged courses

SSRI and other serotonergics/MAOIs - Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.

Rifampin decreases linezolid levels.

Antimicrobial class: Oxazolidinone

Pregnancy category: C

Breastfeeding: Not preferred

Average serum half life: 5 hours

Urine penetration: Therapeutic

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

CSF penetration: Therapeutic