Population pharmacokinetics of linezolid in adults with pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

Nineteen adults with pulmonary tuberculosis received linezolid (600 mg) once or twice daily in an early bactericidal activity trial. A one-compartment population model produced median values for the absorption rate constant, volume of distribution, and elimination rate constant of 1.5 h-1, 29.6 liters, and 0.25 h-1 (once daily) and 2.7 h-1, 32.1 liters, and 0.15 h-1 (twice daily). Linezolid administered twice daily produced higher values for free drug area under the concentration-time curve (AUC)/MIC and time above MIC. Both regimens achieved free AUC/MIC ratios > 100. Median times above the MIC for free drug were 100% (twice daily) and 63% (once daily). Copyright © 2009, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.