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oxazolidinone
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oxazolidinone

drug
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History

oxazolidinone, class of synthetic antibiotics defined chemically by a heterocyclic ring structure that contains one oxygen atom, one nitrogen atom, and three carbon atoms. Oxazolidinones inhibit bacterial growth by blocking the organismsā€™ ability to synthesize proteins. Linezolid is highly active against infections caused by many common gram-positive pathogens (disease-causing agents), including Enterococcus bacteria that are resistant to the antibiotic vancomycin. Linezolid may be administered orally or intravenously. One major side effect is an increase in blood pressure.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Kara Rogers.