Linezolid (Zyvox)

Abstract

Linezolid (Zyvox) is a member of the first new category of antibiotics in 35 years. It is an oxazolidinone that blocks bacterial protein synthesis by a method unlike any other antibiotic, making cross-resistance unlikely. It is available in oral and intravenous formulations and can be used to treat infections caused by gram-positive organisms resistant to most other antibiotics, including vancomycin-resistant enterococci and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. As with any medication, adverse effects have been noted with linezolid, but they usually are mild to moderate in intensity. Most commonly seen are headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Linezolid is a very expensive antibiotic and should be used only for treatment of serious infections caused by microorganisms that are resistant to other antibiotics. Linezolid is a Pregnancy Category C drug. Physicians should use the antibiotic with caution in pregnant and lactating women and only when the benefit clearly outweighs the potential risk to the fetus or infant.