Antimicrobial
Oxazolidinones (linezolid)
50S initiation-complex inhibitor for Gram-positives
ox-uh-zoe-LID-uh-nones
High-yield clue
Linezolid blocks formation of the 70S initiation complex and covers resistant Gram-positives including MRSA and VRE.
Overview
A fully synthetic protein-synthesis class (linezolid, tedizolid) studied for binding the 23S rRNA of the 50S subunit and blocking assembly of the 70S initiation complex.
Classification
- Protein-synthesis inhibitor
- Binds 23S rRNA of 50S subunit
- Bacteriostatic (bactericidal for streptococci concept)
- Synthetic class
Lab & identification clues
- Prevents 70S initiation complex formation
- Resistance via 23S rRNA / cfr mutations concept
- Full oral bioavailability vocabulary
Associations
- MRSA and VRE coverage vocabulary
- Serotonin / monoamine oxidase interaction concept
- Marrow suppression with prolonged use concept
Commonly confused with
- Lincosamides (clindamycin)
- Macrolides
Your notes
Original mechanism summary for microbiology study. Sources checked: CDC antimicrobial-resistance guidance, NCBI Bookshelf Medical Microbiology, and standard coursework frameworks; reviewed 2026-06. Covers class, mechanism, and resistance vocabulary only; no prescribing, dosing, or patient-specific treatment guidance.