Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for Markham Stouffville Hospital

Linezolid

C. diff Risk

Low

Oral Bioavailability

Excellent

Approximate Cost

Non-formulary

Spectrum Of Activity

General Spectrum of Activity

Spectrum Of Activity

Dosing

Renal

No adjustment required

Adult

600mg PO/IV q12h

General Information

Common Usage

Common Usage

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

Covers MRSA and VRE.

Drug Monitoring

Drug Monitoring

CBC at least once/week

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

Adverse Effects

Adverse Effects

  • Serotonin syndrome

  • Rash

  • Elevated liver enzymes

  • Lactic acidosis

  • Myelosuppression (usually with >2weeks therapy)- reversible

  • Peripheral/optic neuropathy with prolonged courses

Major Interactions

Major Interactions

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

Rifampin decreases linezolid levels.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology

Antimicrobial class: Oxazolidinone

Pregnancy category: C

Average serum half life: 5 hours

CSF penetration: Therapeutic

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

Urine penetration: Therapeutic