Update on the safety of linezolid.
BACKGROUND
Linezolid is still the only representative of the oxazolidinones antibiotic class. Because of its novel mechanism of action and excellent tissue penetration, it is used in a variety of approved and off-label clinical conditions.


OBJECTIVE
To review the literature (including latest publications) about the adverse events of linezolid and its overall safety.


CONCLUSIONS
The range of adverse events of linezolid is growing; new ones, such as nephro-toxicity and Bell's palsy, have been reported. Toxicity of linezolid is mostly related with the prolonged duration of treatment and the presence of predisposing factors. Physicians must be alerted when using linezolid for indications and duration different from the approved ones, and must be aware of the possible adverse events. In case of toxicity, the main option is the discontinuation of the drug; although, not all adverse events are fully reversible. Linezolid represents an important advance in therapeutics and is still considered safe enough, but anticipated benefits must always be counterbalanced by the possible toxicity.
Metaxas
Eugenios I
EI
Alfa Institute of Biomedical Sciences, 9 Neapoleos Street, Marousi 151 23, Greece.
Falagas
Matthew E
ME
D000081:Acetamides / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D020330:Bell Palsy / Q000139:chemically induced; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D017326:Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic; D004347:Drug Interactions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007239:Infections / Q000188:drug therapy; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D000069349:Linezolid; D023303:Oxazolidinones / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011247:Pregnancy
D000081:Acetamides; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D023303:Oxazolidinones; D000069349:Linezolid