Tedizolid is a next-generation oxazolidinone-class antibiotic used for treating acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It is available as tedizolid phosphate, a prodrug that is rapidly converted to the active form, tedizolid, in the body. Tedizolid phosphate was approved by the U.S. FDA in June 2014 under the brand name Sivextro, for the treatment of ABSSSI in adults. It was later approved in other regions including the European Union and Canada. The approval was based on Phase 3 trials demonstrating non-inferiority to linezolid with a shorter 6-day treatment course.
BRAND NAMES
Sivextro: Sivextro (Tedizolid Phosphate) is an oxazolidinone antibiotic for treating acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI), including MRSA. It is given once daily at 200 mg for 6 days, orally or intravenously.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Tedizolid phosphate is a prodrug that is rapidly converted in the body to its active form, tedizolid. As a member of the oxazolidinone class of antibiotics, it acts by binding to the 23S rRNA of the 50S ribosomal subunit, thereby blocking formation of the 70S initiation complex essential for bacterial protein synthesis. This mechanism effectively inhibits bacterial growth. Tedizolid demonstrates potent activity against multi-drug resistant Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA and VRE. Compared to older oxazolidinones like linezolid, tedizolid offers enhanced ribosomal binding affinity and reduced cross-resistance, contributing to its greater potency and broader activity spectrum.
PHARMACOKINETICS
Absorption:
Tedizolid phosphate is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and converted to active tedizolid; oral bioavailability ~91%..
Distribution:
Widely distributed in body tissues with a volume of distribution ~67–80 L; ~70–90% plasma protein binding.
Metabolism:
Tedizolid primarily undergoes phase II metabolism via sulfate conjugation, independent of CYP450 enzymes, resulting in minimal cytochrome P450 interactions
Elimination:
Primarily eliminated via the liver and feces (80%) and urine (20%) as inactive sulfate conjugate, half-life 12 hours, supporting once-daily dosing
PHARMACODYNAMICS
Tedizolid exhibits bacteriostatic activity by inhibiting protein synthesis in Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA and VRE. Its antibacterial effect is primarily time-dependent, but efficacy also correlates with the AUC/MIC ratio (area under the concentration-time curve to minimum inhibitory concentration). This pharmacodynamic profile supports once-daily dosing and effective bacterial suppression over a 24-hour period.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Tedizolid is prescribed at a fixed dose of 200 mg once daily for a duration of 6 days for the treatment of acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI). It is available in both oral tablets and intravenous (IV) infusion, with no need for dose modification when switching between the two routes. The oral tablet can be taken with or without food, offering flexibility in administration. Additionally, no dosage adjustment is required in patients with mild to moderate renal or hepatic impairment, including those undergoing hemodialysis
DRUG INTERACTIONS
CONTRAINDICATIONS
SIDE EFFECTS
Common Side Effects:
Serious Side Effects (Rare):
TOXICITY
Tedizolid has low acute toxicity and is generally well tolerated. Its main toxicities include hematologic effects like thrombocytopenia (especially with prolonged use), mild liver enzyme elevations, and rare neurological effects (e.g., peripheral neuropathy). It shows lower mitochondrial and hematologic toxicity than linezolid. Animal studies indicate potential fetal toxicity at high doses.