Linezolid belongs to a class of medications called oxazolidinone antibiotics. It kills bacteria by interrupting protein synthesis in bacterial cells. It is used to treat various bacterial infections, including pneumonia and skin infections. Linezolid is not active against common Gram-negative organisms and does not work for virus or fungus infections.
Linezolid is available as tablets and suspensions which are taken by mouth. It may be taken with or without food.
Community-acquired pneumonia, complicated skin and skin structure infections
Adult
600 mg every 12 hours for 10-14 days.
Child over 12 years
600 mg every 12 hours for 10-14 days.
Child 7 days – 11 years
10 mg/kg body weight every 8 hours for 10-14 days.
Newborn 0-7 days
10 mg/kg body weight every 12 hours for 10-14 days. Dose may increase to 10 mg/kg body weight every 8 hours depending on clinical response.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections
Adult
600 mg twice daily for 7-21 days.
Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections
Adult
400 mg every 12 hours for 10-14 days for 10-14 days.
Child over 12 years
600 mg every 12 hours for 10-14 days for 10-14 days.
Child 5-11 years
10 mg/kg body weight every 12 hours for 10-14 days.
Child under 5 years
10 mg/kg body weight every 8 hours for 10-14 days.
Common dosing schedule:
Linezolid should be taken every 12 hours.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Linezolid may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Linezolid is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Linezolid in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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