Antibiotics · Oxazolidinone
Linezolid
Dose
600 mg PO/IV BD
Mechanism
Inhibits 50S ribosomal initiation complex
Indications
- • MRSA / VRE infection
- • Complicated skin / soft-tissue, pneumonia
Contraindications
- • Concurrent serotonergic agents (SSRI, MAOI) — serotonin syndrome
Use
100% bioavailable PO — useful for OPAT step-down.
Monitoring
FBC weekly (thrombocytopenia), visual / peripheral neuropathy if >28 d.
Side effects
- • Thrombocytopenia, anaemia
- • Peripheral / optic neuropathy (prolonged use)
- • Serotonin syndrome
- • Lactic acidosis
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
