1.1 Nosocomial Pneumonia
Linezolid injection is indicated for the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible and -resistant isolates) or Streptococcus pneumoniae [see Clinical Studies (14)].
The following Structured Product Label (SPL) was submitted to the FDA by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. for the product Linezolid (NDC 57664-682). This document serves as the official prescribing information, containing essential scientific data and clinical materials required for healthcare providers and patients.
This specific version of the label includes detailed information regarding 1.1 nosocomial pneumonia, 1.2 community-acquired pneumonia, 1.3 complicated skin and skin structure infections, 1.4 uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, 1.5 vancomycin-resistant enterococcus faecium infections, 1.6 limitations of use, 1.7 usage, 2.1 general dosage and administration, and other regulatory disclosures. Use the navigation below to review specific sections of the FDA submission.
Linezolid injection is indicated for the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible and -resistant isolates) or Streptococcus pneumoniae [see Clinical Studies (14)].
Linezolid injection is indicated for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, including cases with concurrent bacteremia, or Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible isolates only) [see Clinical Studies (14)].
Linezolid injection is indicated for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections, including diabetic foot infections, without concomitant osteomyelitis, caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible and -resistant isolates), Streptococcus pyogenes, or Streptococcus agalactiae . Linezolid injection has not been studied in the treatment of decubitus ulcers [see Clinical Studies (14)].
Linezolid injection is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible isolates only) or Streptococcus pyogenes [see Clinical Studies (14)].
Linezolid injection is indicated for the treatment of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium infections, including cases with concurrent bacteremia [see Clinical Studies (14)].
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of linezolid injection and other antibacterial drugs, linezolid injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.
The recommended dosage for linezolid injection formulations for the treatment of infections is described in Table 1.
| Infection Due to the designated pathogens [see Indications and Usage (1)] | Dosage, Route and Frequency of Administration | Recommended Duration of Treatment (consecutive days) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pediatric Patients Neonates less than 7 days: Most pre-term neonates less than 7 days of age (gestational age less than 34 weeks) have lower systemic linezolid clearance values and larger AUC values than many full-term neonates and older infants. These neonates should be initiated with a dosing regimen of 10 mg/kg every 12 hours. Consideration may be given to the use of 10 mg/kg every 8 hours regimen in neonates with a sub-optimal clinical response. All neonatal patients should receive 10 mg/kg every 8 hours by 7 days of life [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. (Birth through 11 Years of Age) | Adults and Adolescents (12 Years and Older) | ||
| Nosocomial pneumonia | 10 mg/kg intravenously every 8 hours | 600 mg intravenously every 12 hours | 10 to 14 |
| Community-acquired pneumonia, including concurrent bacteremia | |||
| Complicated skin and skin structure infections | |||
| Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium infections, including concurrent bacteremia | 10 mg/kg intravenously every 8 hours | 600 mg intravenously every 12 hours | 14 to 28 |
No dose adjustment is necessary when switching from intravenous to oral administration.
Linezolid injection is supplied in single-dose, ready-to-use infusion bags. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter prior to administration. Check for minute leaks by firmly squeezing the bag. If leaks are detected, discard the solution, as sterility may be impaired. Keep the infusion bags in the overwrap until ready to use. Store at room temperature. Protect from freezing. Linezolid injection may exhibit a yellow color that can intensify over time without adversely affecting potency.
Linezolid injection should be administered by intravenous infusion over a period of 30 to 120 minutes. Do not use this intravenous infusion bag in series connections. Additives should not be introduced into this solution. If linezolid injection is to be given concomitantly with another drug, each drug should be given separately in accordance with the recommended dosage and route of administration for each product. Discard unused portion.
If the same intravenous line is used for sequential infusion of several drugs, the line should be flushed before and after infusion of linezolid injection with an infusion solution compatible with linezolid injection and with any other drug(s) administered via this common line.
Compatible intravenous solutions include 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, 5% Dextrose Injection, USP, and Lactated Ringer's Injection, USP.
Physical incompatibilities resulted when linezolid injection was combined with the following drugs during simulated Y-site administration: amphotericin B, chlorpromazine HCl, diazepam, pentamidine isothionate, erythromycin lactobionate, phenytoin sodium, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Additionally, chemical incompatibility resulted when linezolid injection was combined with ceftriaxone sodium.
Linezolid injection: 200 mg/100 mL (2 mg/mL) and 600 mg/300 mL (2 mg/mL) linezolid single-dose, ready-to-use flexible plastic infusion bags in a foil laminate overwrap.
Linezolid injection formulations are contraindicated for use in patients who have known hypersensitivity to linezolid or any of the other product components.
Linezolid should not be used in patients taking any medicinal product which inhibits monoamine oxidases A or B (e.g., phenelzine, isocarboxazid) or within two weeks of taking any such medicinal product.
Myelosuppression (including anemia, leukopenia, pancytopenia, and thrombocytopenia) has been reported in patients receiving linezolid. In cases where the outcome is known, when linezolid was discontinued, the affected hematologic parameters have risen toward pretreatment levels. Thrombocytopenia has been reported more often in patients with severe renal impairment, whether or not on dialysis, and in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment. Complete blood counts should be monitored weekly in patients who receive linezolid, particularly in those who receive linezolid for longer than two weeks, those with pre-existing myelosuppression, those with severe renal impairment or moderate to severe hepatic impairment, those receiving concomitant drugs that produce bone marrow suppression, or those with a chronic infection who have received previous or concomitant antibacterial drug therapy. Discontinuation of therapy with linezolid should be considered in patients who develop or have worsening myelosuppression [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
Peripheral and optic neuropathies have been reported in patients treated with linezolid, primarily in those patients treated for longer than the maximum recommended duration of 28 days. In cases of optic neuropathy that progressed to loss of vision, patients were treated for extended periods beyond the maximum recommended duration. Visual blurring has been reported in some patients treated with linezolid for less than 28 days. Peripheral and optic neuropathy has also been reported in children.
If patients experience symptoms of visual impairment, such as changes in visual acuity, changes in color vision, blurred vision, or visual field defect, prompt ophthalmic evaluation is recommended. Visual function should be monitored in all patients taking linezolid for extended periods (≥ 3 months) and in all patients reporting new visual symptoms regardless of length of therapy with linezolid. If peripheral or optic neuropathy occurs, the continued use of linezolid in these patients should be weighed against the potential risks.
Spontaneous reports of serotonin syndrome including fatal cases associated with the concomitant use of linezolid and serotonergic agents have been reported. Commonly used serotonergic agents include serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, buspirone, serotonin 5-HT1 receptor agonists (triptans), and opioids, including meperidine. Symptoms associated with serotonin syndrome may include hyperthermia, diaphoresis, agitation, hyperreflexia, clonus, pyrexia, opsoclonus, muscle rigidity, tremor, and hypertonia. Monitor patients for the emergence of serotonin syndrome with the concomitant use of linezolid and serotonergic agents or with use of linezolid in patients with carcinoid syndrome. If signs or symptoms of serotonin syndrome occur, consider discontinuing linezolid and/or concomitant serotonergic agents as clinically appropriate and initiate supportive treatment. Inform patients of the increased risk of serotonin syndrome when linezolid is used concomitantly with serotonergic agents.
An imbalance in mortality was seen in patients treated with linezolid relative to vancomycin/dicloxacillin/oxacillin in an open-label study in seriously ill patients with intravascular catheter-related infections [78/363 (21.5%) vs. 58/363 (16.0%); odds ratio 1.426, 95% CI 0.970, 2.098]. While causality has not been established, this observed imbalance occurred primarily in linezolid-treated patients in whom either Gram-negative pathogens, mixed Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens, or no pathogen were identified at baseline, but was not seen in patients with Gram-positive infections only.
Linezolid is not approved and should not be used for the treatment of patients with catheter-related bloodstream infections or catheter-site infections.
Linezolid has no clinical activity against Gram-negative pathogens and is not indicated for the treatment of Gram-negative infections. It is critical that specific Gram-negative therapy be initiated immediately if a concomitant Gram-negative pathogen is documented or suspected [see Indications and Usage (1)].
Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including linezolid, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.
C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial drug use.
Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.
If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial drug use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial drug treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
Unless patients are monitored for potential increases in blood pressure, linezolid should not be administered to patients with uncontrolled hypertension, pheochromocytoma, thyrotoxicosis and/or patients taking any of the following types of medications: directly and indirectly acting sympathomimetic agents (e.g., pseudoephedrine), vasopressive agents (e.g., epinephrine, norepinephrine), dopaminergic agents (e.g., dopamine, dobutamine) [see Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Lactic acidosis has been reported with the use of linezolid. In reported cases, patients experienced repeated episodes of nausea and vomiting. Patients who develop recurrent nausea or vomiting, unexplained acidosis, or a low bicarbonate level while receiving linezolid should receive immediate medical evaluation.
Convulsions have been reported in patients when treated with linezolid. In some of these cases, a history of seizures or risk factors for seizures was reported.
Rhabdomyolysis has been reported with the use of linezolid, including linezolid injection [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. If signs or symptoms of rhabdomyolysis such as muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, dark urine or elevated creatine phosphokinase are observed, discontinue linezolid injection and initiate appropriate therapy.
Postmarketing cases of symptomatic hypoglycemia have been reported in patients with diabetes mellitus receiving insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents when treated with linezolid, a reversible, nonselective MAO inhibitor. Some MAO inhibitors have been associated with hypoglycemic episodes in diabetic patients receiving insulin or hypoglycemic agents. While a causal relationship between linezolid and hypoglycemia has not been established, diabetic patients should be cautioned of potential hypoglycemic reactions when treated with linezolid.
If hypoglycemia occurs, a decrease in the dose of insulin or oral hypoglycemic agent, or discontinuation of oral hypoglycemic agent, insulin, or linezolid may be required.
Postmarketing cases of hyponatremia and/or Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH) have been observed in patients treated with linezolid. In reported cases, the signs and symptoms included confusion, somnolence, generalized weakness, and in severe cases led to respiratory failure and even death. Monitor serum sodium levels regularly in the elderly, in patients taking diuretics, and in other patients at risk of hyponatremia and/or SIADH while taking linezolid. If signs and symptoms of hyponatremia and/or SIADH occur, discontinue linezolid, and institute appropriate supportive measures.
Phenylalanine can be harmful to patients with phenylketonuria (PKU).
Linezolid injection does not contain phenylalanine.
Prescribing linezolid in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of linezolid. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure:
Anaphylaxis, angioedema, bullous skin disorders including severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) such as toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and hypersensitivity vasculitis.
Myelosuppression (including anemia, leukopenia, pancytopenia, and thrombocytopenia). Thrombocytopenia has been reported more often in patients with severe renal impairment and in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]; sideroblastic anemia.
Serotonin syndrome has been reported in patients receiving concomitant serotonergic agents, including antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and opioids, and linezolid [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Lactic acidosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. Although these reports have primarily been in patients treated for longer than the maximum recommended duration of 28 days, these events have also been reported in patients receiving shorter courses of therapy.
Rhabdomyolysis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Hypoglycemia, including symptomatic episodes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Hyponatremia and/or Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].
Superficial tooth discoloration and tongue discoloration have been reported with the use of linezolid. The tooth discoloration was removable with professional dental cleaning (manual descaling) in cases with known outcome.
Linezolid is a reversible, nonselective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase [see Contraindications (4.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Linezolid has the potential for interaction with adrenergic and serotonergic agents [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3, 5.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Risk Summary
Linezolid is present in breast milk. Based on data from available published case reports, the daily dose of linezolid that the infant would receive from breastmilk would be approximately 6% to 9% of the recommended therapeutic infant dose (10 mg/kg every 8 hours). There is no information on the effects of linezolid on the breastfed infant; however, diarrhea and vomiting were the most common adverse reactions reported in clinical trials in infants receiving linezolid therapeutically [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] and (see Clinical Considerations). There is no information on the effects of linezolid on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for linezolid and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from linezolid or from the underlying maternal condition.
Clinical Considerations
Advise lactating women to monitor a breastfed infant for diarrhea and vomiting.
Infertility
Males
Based on findings from studies in rats, linezolid may reversibly impair fertility in male patients [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
The safety and effectiveness of linezolid for the treatment of pediatric patients with the following infections are supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults, pharmacokinetic data in pediatric patients, and additional data from a comparator-controlled study of Gram-positive infections in pediatric patients ranging in age from birth through 11 years [see Indications and Usage (1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Clinical Studies (14)]:
The safety and effectiveness of linezolid for the treatment of pediatric patients with the following infection have been established in a comparator-controlled study in pediatric patients ranging in age from 5 through 17 years [see Clinical Studies (14)]:
Pharmacokinetic information generated in pediatric patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunts showed variable cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) linezolid concentrations following single and multiple dosing of linezolid; therapeutic concentrations were not consistently achieved or maintained in the CSF. Therefore, the use of linezolid for the empiric treatment of pediatric patients with central nervous system infections is not recommended.
The pharmacokinetics of linezolid have been evaluated in pediatric patients from birth to 17 years of age. In general, weight-based clearance of linezolid gradually decreases with increasing age of pediatric patients. However, in preterm (gestational age < 34 weeks) neonates < 7 days of age, linezolid clearance is often lower than in full-term neonates < 7 days of age. Consequently, preterm neonates < 7 days of age may need an alternative linezolid dosing regimen of 10 mg/kg every 12 hours [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
In limited clinical experience, 5 out of 6 (83%) pediatric patients with infections due to Gram-positive pathogens with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 4 mcg/mL treated with linezolid had clinical cures. However, pediatric patients exhibit wider variability in linezolid clearance and systemic exposure (AUC) compared with adults. In pediatric patients with a sub-optimal clinical response, particularly those with pathogens with MIC of 4 mcg/mL, lower systemic exposure, site and severity of infection, and the underlying medical condition should be considered when assessing clinical response [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Dosage and Administration (2)].
Of the 2,046 patients treated with linezolid in Phase 3 comparator-controlled clinical trials, 589 (29%) were 65 years or older and 253 (12%) were 75 years or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
In the event of overdosage, supportive care is advised, with maintenance of glomerular filtration. Hemodialysis may facilitate more rapid elimination of linezolid. In a Phase 1 clinical trial, approximately 30% of a dose of linezolid was removed during a 3-hour hemodialysis session beginning 3 hours after the dose of linezolid was administered. Data are not available for removal of linezolid with peritoneal dialysis or hemoperfusion. Clinical signs of acute toxicity in animals were decreased activity and ataxia in rats and vomiting and tremors in dogs treated with 3,000 mg/kg/day and 2,000 mg/kg/day, respectively.
Linezolid injection contains linezolid, which is a synthetic antibacterial agent of the oxazolidinone class. The chemical name for linezolid is (S)-N-[[3-[3-Fluoro-4-(4-morpholinyl)phenyl]-2-oxo-5-oxazolidinyl] methyl]-acetamide.
The empirical formula is C16H20FN3O4. Its molecular weight is 337.35, and its chemical structure is represented below:
Linezolid injection is supplied as a ready-to-use sterile isotonic solution for intravenous infusion. Each mL contains 2 mg of linezolid. Inactive ingredients are dextrose monohydrate 50.24 mg/mL in an aqueous vehicle for intravenous administration, sodium citrate dihydrate 1.64 mg/mL, and citric acid anhydrous 0.85 mg/mL. Sodium hydroxide NF and/or hydrochloric acid NF are used to adjust the pH. The sodium (Na+) content is 0.38 mg/mL (5 mEq/300 mL bag and 1.7 mEq/100 mL bag).
Linezolid is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology (12.4)].
In a randomized, positive- and placebo-controlled crossover thorough QT study, 40 healthy subjects were administered a single linezolid 600 mg dose via a 1 hour IV infusion, a single linezolid 1,200 mg dose via a 1 hour IV infusion, placebo, and a single oral dose of positive control. At both the 600 mg and 1,200 mg linezolid doses, no significant effect on QTc interval was detected at peak plasma concentration or at any other time.
The mean pharmacokinetic parameters of linezolid in adults after single and multiple oral and intravenous doses are summarized in Table 8. Plasma concentrations of linezolid at steady-state after oral doses of 600 mg given every 12 hours are shown in Figure 1.
Dose of Linezolid | Cmax mcg/mL | Cmin mcg/mL | Tmax hrs | AUC AUC for single dose = AUC0-∞ ; for multiple dose = AUC0-τ mcg•h/mL | t1/2 hrs | CL mL/min |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cmax = Maximum plasma concentration; Cmin = Minimum plasma concentration; Tmax = Time to Cmax ; AUC = Area under concentration-time curve; t1/2 = Elimination half-life; CL= Systemic clearance | ||||||
| 400 mg tablet single dose Data dose-normalized from 375 mg every 12 hours | 8.10 (1.83) 11.00 (4.37) | --- 3.08 (2.25) | 1.52 (1.01) 1.12 (0.47) | 55.10 (25.00) 73.40 (33.50) | 5.20 (1.50) 4.69 (1.70) | 146 (67) 110 (49) |
| 600 mg tablet single dose every 12 hours | 12.70 (3.96) 21.20 (5.78) | --- 6.15 (2.94) | 1.28 (0.66) 1.03 (0.62) | 91.40 (39.30) 138.00 (42.10) | 4.26 (1.65) 5.40 (2.06) | 127 (48) 80 (29) |
| 600 mg IV injection Data dose-normalized from 625 mg, intravenous dose was given as 0.5-hour infusion. single dose every 12 hours | 12.90 (1.60) 15.10 (2.52) | --- 3.68 (2.36) | 0.50 (0.10) 0.51 (0.03) | 80.20 (33.30) 89.70 (31.00) | 4.40 (2.40) 4.80 (1.70) | 138 (39) 123 (40) |
| 600 mg oral suspension single dose | 11.00 (2.76) | --- | 0.97 (0.88) | 80.80 (35.10) | 4.60 (1.71) | 141 (45) |
Figure 1. Plasma Concentrations of Linezolid in Adults at Steady-State Following Oral Dosing Every 12 Hours (Mean ± Standard Deviation, n=16)
Lifetime studies in animals have not been conducted to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of linezolid. Neither mutagenic nor clastogenic potential was found in a battery of tests including: assays for mutagenicity (Ames bacterial reversion and CHO cell mutation), an in vitro unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) assay, an in vitro chromosome aberration assay in human lymphocytes, and an in vivo mouse micronucleus assay.
Linezolid did not affect the fertility or reproductive performance of adult female rats given oral doses of up to 100 mg/kg/day for 14 days prior to mating through Gestation Day 7. It reversibly decreased fertility and reproductive performance in adult male rats when given at doses ≥ 50 mg/kg/day, with exposures approximately equal to or greater than the expected human exposure level (exposure comparisons are based on AUCs). The reversible fertility effects were mediated through altered spermatogenesis. Affected spermatids contained abnormally formed and oriented mitochondria and were non-viable. Epithelial cell hypertrophy and hyperplasia in the epididymis was observed in conjunction with decreased fertility. Similar epididymal changes were not seen in dogs.
In sexually mature male rats exposed to drug as juveniles, mildly decreased fertility was observed following treatment with linezolid through most of their period of sexual development (50 mg/kg/day from days 7 to 36 of age, and 100 mg/kg/day from days 37 to 55 of age), with exposures up to 1.7 times greater than mean AUCs observed in pediatric patients aged 3 months to 11 years. Decreased fertility was not observed with shorter treatment periods, corresponding to exposure in utero through the early neonatal period (gestation day 6 through postnatal day 5), neonatal exposure (postnatal days 5 to 21), or to juvenile exposure (postnatal days 22 to 35). Reversible reductions in sperm motility and altered sperm morphology were observed in rats treated from postnatal day 22 to 35.
Target organs of linezolid toxicity were similar in juvenile and adult rats and dogs. Dose- and time-dependent myelosuppression, as evidenced by bone marrow hypocellularity/decreased hematopoiesis, decreased extramedullary hematopoiesis in spleen and liver, and decreased levels of circulating erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets have been seen in animal studies. Lymphoid depletion occurred in thymus, lymph nodes, and spleen. Generally, the lymphoid findings were associated with anorexia, weight loss, and suppression of body weight gain, which may have contributed to the observed effects.
In rats administered linezolid orally for 6 months, non-reversible, minimal to mild axonal degeneration of sciatic nerves was observed at 80 mg/kg/day; minimal degeneration of the sciatic nerve was also observed in 1 male at this dose level at a 3-month interim necropsy. Sensitive morphologic evaluation of perfusion-fixed tissues was conducted to investigate evidence of optic nerve degeneration. Minimal to moderate optic nerve degeneration was evident in 2 male rats after 6 months of dosing, but the direct relationship to drug was equivocal because of the acute nature of the finding and its asymmetrical distribution. The nerve degeneration observed was microscopically comparable to spontaneous unilateral optic nerve degeneration reported in aging rats and may be an exacerbation of common background change.
These effects were observed at exposure levels that are comparable to those observed in some human subjects. The hematopoietic and lymphoid effects were reversible, although in some studies, reversal was incomplete within the duration of the recovery period.
Linezolid injection is available in single-dose, ready-to-use flexible plastic infusion bags in a foil laminate overwrap. The infusion bags and ports are not made with natural rubber latex. The infusion bags are available in the following package sizes:
200 mg/100 mL (2 mg/mL) linezolid NDC 57664-682-30
600 mg/300 mL (2 mg/mL) linezolid NDC 57664-683-31
600 mg/300 mL (2 mg/mL) linezolid × 10 NDC 57664-683-57
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F)[see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. It is recommended that the infusion bags be kept in the overwrap until ready to use. Protect infusion bags from freezing.
Peripheral and Optic Neuropathy
Advise patients to inform their physician if they experience changes in vision while taking linezolid [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Serotonin Syndrome
Advise patients to inform their physician if taking serotonergic agents, including serotonin reuptake inhibitors or other antidepressants and opioids. Advise patients of the increased risk of serotonin syndrome when linezolid is used concomitantly with serotonergic agents [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Potential Interactions Producing Elevation of Blood Pressure
Lactic Acidosis
Advise patients to inform their physician if they experience repeated episodes of nausea or vomiting while receiving linezolid [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
Convulsions
Advise patients to inform their physician if they have a history of seizures or convulsions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Rhabdomyolysis
Advise patients to inform their physician if they experience signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis including muscle pain, tenderness or weakness and dark urine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Hypoglycemia
Advise patients to inform their physician if they have diabetes mellitus. Hypoglycemic reactions, such as diaphoresis and tremulousness, along with low blood glucose measurements may occur when treated with linezolid. If such reactions occur, patients should contact a physician or other health professional for proper treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Hyponatremia and/or SIADH
Advise patients at risk for hyponatremia to inform their physician if they experience signs and symptoms of hyponatremia and/or SIADH, including confusion, somnolence, generalized weakness, and respiratory distress [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].
Antibacterial Resistance
Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including linezolid should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When linezolid is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by linezolid or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibacterial drugs, which usually ends when the antibacterial drug is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibacterial drugs, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibacterial drug. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
Infertility
Advise male patients that linezolid may reversibly impair fertility [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Distributed by:
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc.
Cranbury, NJ 08512
Manufactured by:
Nang Kuang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
No. 1001, Zhongshan Rd., Xinhua Dist.,
Tainan City 71243, Taiwan
Issued: 072026-14
2620000000U563
NDC 57664-682-30
Rx only
Linezolid Injection 200 mg/100 mL (2 mg/mL)
Each mL contains:
linezolid 2 mg
dextrose, USP 50.24 mg
sodium citrate, USP 1.64 mg
citric acid, USP 0.85 mg
water for injection, USP qs
pH adjusted to 4.8 with sodium
hydroxide or hydrochloric acid.
For intravenous administration.
Do not add supplementary medication.
Do not use in series connections.
Sterile and nonpyrogenic
Single dose container
Lot No.:
Exp. Date:
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F)[see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze.
Linezolid is sensitive to light.
Retain overwrap prior to use.
Check for leaks by squeezing container. If leaks are found, discard, as sterility may be impaired. Check linezolid solution for clarity; it may exhibit a yellow color that intensifies over time, with no adverse effect on potency.
See accompanying prescribing information.
Distributed by:
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc.
Cranbury, NJ 08512
Manufactured by:
Nang Kuang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
No. 1001, Zhongshan Rd., Xinhua Dist.,
Tainan City 71243, Taiwan
Issued no. :090518-03
NDC 57664-683-31
Rx only
Linezolid Injection 600 mg/300 mL (2 mg/mL)
Each mL contains:
linezolid 2 mg
dextrose, USP 50.24 mg
sodium citrate, USP 1.64 mg
citric acid, USP 0.85 mg
water for injection, USP qs
pH adjusted to 4.8 with sodium
hydroxide or hydrochloric acid.
For intravenous administration.
Do not add supplementary medication.
Do not use in series connections.
Sterile and nonpyrogenic
Single dose container
Lot No.:
Exp. Date:
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permittedto 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP ControlledRoom Temperature]. Do not freeze.
Linezolid is sensitive to light.
Retain overwrap prior to use.
Check for leaks by squeezing container. If leaks are found, discard, as sterility may be impaired. Check linezolid solution for clarity; it may exhibit a yellow color that intensifies over time, with no adverse effect on potency.
See accompanying prescribing information.
Distributed by:
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc.
Cranbury, NJ 08512
Manufactured by:
Nang Kuang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
No. 1001, Zhongshan Rd., Xinhua Dist.,
Tainan City 71243, Taiwan
Issue no. :090518-03
Linezolid Injection
600 mg/300 mL (2 mg/mL)
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F)
[see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze.
Linezolid is sensitive to light. Retain overwrap prior to use.
EXP: YYYY-MM LOT: xxxxxx QTY: 1
NDC: 57664 683 57 SN: xxxxxxxxxxxx
Distributed by: Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Inc. - Cranbury, NJ 08512
* Please review the disclaimer below.