Linezolid induced LA

Q; Lactic acidosis from Linezolid usually clears quickly once the drug is stopped.

A) True

B) False

Answer: B

Lactic acidosis from linezolid can be fatal. It usually occurs in patients on long-term infusion but may occur in ICU within a week of administration. The mechanism of action is secondary to mitochondrial toxicity. 

It may take up to 14 days for lactate levels to normalize.

#acid-base

#pharmacology

References:

1. Santini A, Ronchi D, Garbellini M, et al. Linezolid-induced lactic acidosis: the thin line between bacterial and mitochondrial ribosomes. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2017; 16:833. 

2. Wiener M, Guo Y, Patel G, Fries BC. Lactic acidosis after treatment with linezolid. Infection 2007; 35:278. 

3. Apodaca AA, Rakita RM. Linezolid-induced lactic acidosis. N Engl J Med 2003; 348:86.