Oxazolidinones

Definition

Oxazolidinones are a class of synthetic antibiotics effective against Gram-positive bacteria. They inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by interfering with the 50S ribosomal subunit.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxazolidinones, such as linezolid, are used to treat infections caused by multi-resistant bacteria.
2. They work by binding to the bacterial 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit, preventing the formation of a functional 70S initiation complex.
3. Commonly used to treat conditions like pneumonia and skin infections.
4. Oxazolidinones are generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects like bone marrow suppression and peripheral neuropathy with prolonged use.
5. Linezolid was the first oxazolidinone approved for clinical use in the early 2000s.

Review Questions

• How do oxazolidinones inhibit bacterial protein synthesis?
• What types of infections are oxazolidinones commonly used to treat?
• Name a potential side effect associated with prolonged use of oxazolidinones.

Related terms

Linezolid:

An antibiotic within the oxazolidinone class used primarily for Gram-positive infections.

50S Ribosomal Subunit:

The larger subunit of the bacterial ribosome where protein synthesis occurs.

Multi-resistant Bacteria: Bacteria that have acquired resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics.