LINXOLE 600mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is LINXOLE 600mg

LINXOLE 600 mg is an oral antibiotic containing Linezolid, which belongs to the oxazolidinone class. It is a synthetic antimicrobial agent used primarily to treat infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, particularly multidrug-resistant strains. These include methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), and penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae.

It is typically prescribed when other antibiotics have failed or are not suitable due to resistance. LINXOLE is available as film-coated tablets and is used in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Indications for use include:

• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Nosocomial (hospital-acquired) pneumonia
• Complicated and uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections
• Infections due to resistant Gram-positive pathogens

How to use LINXOLE 600mg

LINXOLE should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

• The usual adult dose is 600 mg orally every 12 hours
• Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, with or without food
• It is important to maintain consistent dosing intervals (every 12 hours) for maximum effectiveness
• Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early

Missed doses should be taken as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.

Mode of Action LINXOLE 600mg

Linezolid works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis:

• It binds to the 23S portion of the 50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes
• This prevents the formation of the 70S initiation complex, which is essential for bacterial translation and protein production

This mechanism is distinct from other antibiotic classes, contributing to its effectiveness against resistant strains. Linezolid has a bacteriostatic effect against enterococci and staphylococci and is bactericidal against most streptococci.

LINXOLE 600mg Interactions LINXOLE 600mg

Linezolid has significant drug interaction potential, especially due to its mild monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) activity.

• SSRIs and SNRIs: May lead to serotonin syndrome; monitor closely or avoid use together
• Adrenergic agents (e.g., pseudoephedrine, dopamine): Risk of hypertensive reactions
• Tyramine-rich foods: Can cause hypertensive crisis; patients should avoid aged cheeses, smoked meats, fermented products
• MAO inhibitors: Concurrent use is contraindicated
• Rifampin: May reduce plasma levels of Linezolid

Dosage of LINXOLE 600mg

Standard dosage recommendations:

• Adults: 600 mg orally every 12 hours
• Duration:
  • Skin and soft tissue infections: 10–14 days
  • Pneumonia: 10–14 days
  • MRSA/VRE infections: Duration may be extended based on clinical judgment
• Renal/Hepatic Impairment: No adjustment generally required, but monitoring is advised

Always follow physician guidance and do not alter the dosage without medical consultation.

Possible side effects of LINXOLE 600mg

Most side effects are mild and resolve upon discontinuation, but some may be serious:

• Common: Headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
• Hematologic: Thrombocytopenia, anemia, leukopenia (especially with treatment beyond 2 weeks)
• Neurologic: Peripheral or optic neuropathy (with prolonged use)
• Serotonin Syndrome: Especially when used with serotonergic agents
• Lactic Acidosis: Rare but serious; monitor if symptoms like deep, rapid breathing or unexplained fatigue occur

LINXOLE 600mg Contraindications LINXOLE 600mg

• Hypersensitivity to Linezolid or any excipients
• Use with or within 2 weeks of MAO inhibitors
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Thyrotoxicosis or pheochromocytoma (due to potential for hypertensive crisis)

Caution is advised in patients with a history of seizures or bone marrow suppression.

Storage of LINXOLE 600mg

• Store below 30°C (86°F)
• Keep in the original blister packaging to protect from moisture and light
• Do not use after the expiration date
• Keep out of reach of children

Dispose of any unused medication safely as per local pharmaceutical guidelines.