Linezolid Pharmacology

Linezolid is an antibiotic used for bacterial infection. It primarily works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Linezolid is primarily bacteriostatic against most bacteria which means that it inhibits the growth and doesn’t necessarily kill the bacteria itself. Caution must be used with linezolid and serotonergic drugs as there is a risk for serotonin syndrome. Clinical risk/benefit analysis needs to be done. Linezolid overall has good coverage for VRE and MRSA. It is an option for MRSA pneumonia where daptomycin is not. Linezolid has both an oral and an IV option which allows for good continuity of inpatient and outpatient use. Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!