Dose Adult - Dosage Range
Oral / I.V.
Adults: 600 mg PO/IV every 12 hours for 10–28 days depending on infection.
Paediatric: 10 mg/kg PO/IV every 8 hours (birth–11 years); ≥12 years: 600 mg every 12 hours.
Brands; See below
Combinations;
No fixed-dose combinations.
Indications; MRSA, VRE, complicated skin infections, hospital- and community-acquired pneumonia due to susceptible Gram-positive organisms.
Precautions; Monitor CBC weekly if prolonged therapy; optic/peripheral neuropathy, lactic acidosis, serotonin syndrome risk.
Contraindications; Concurrent or recent MAOI use; hypersensitivity.
Pregnancy/Lactation; Use only if benefits outweigh risks; caution during breastfeeding.
| MOA | Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit, preventing formation of the initiation complex. |
|---|---|
| Indication | MRSA, VRE, complicated skin and soft tissue infections, pneumonia caused by susceptible Gram-positive organisms. |
| Side Effects | Thrombocytopenia, anaemia, nausea, diarrhoea, headache, peripheral/optic neuropathy, lactic acidosis. |
| Polypharmacy | Avoid or closely monitor with SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, MAOIs, tramadol, pethidine, dextromethorphan, sympathomimetics and tyramine-rich foods. |
| Drug Category | DRUGS ACTING ON INFECTIONS |
| Drug Sub-Category | Oxazolidinone Antibiotic |
| Brand Name | Manufacturer Name | Distributor | Drug Strength | Packaging | Formulation | Formulation Strength | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zyvox® | Pfizer | Hospital Supply | 600 mg | 10 | Tablet | per tablet | Hospital supply |
| Linezolid Generic | Various | Various | 600 mg | 10 | Tablet | per tablet | KES 2,500–6,000 |
| Linezolid Generic | Various | Various | 600 mg/300 mL | 300 mL | IV Infusion | per bag | KES 1,500–3,500 |