The incidence of linezolid-associated side effects in MDR/RR-TB patients receiving routine care at a tertiary hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Drug-resistant tuberculosis is currently considered an ongoing public health crisis and a health security threat. Several strategies for the management of MDR/RR- TB have been explored including the use of repurposed drugs like linezolid, fluoroquinolones, and the addition of new TB-specific medications like bedaquiline and delamanid. Linezolid has been extensively studied in the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis. Although linezolid is an important option for drug-resistant tuberculosis management, its prolonged use has been associated with treatment-limiting side effects including peripheral neuropathy, optic neuritis, myelosuppression including severe anaemia and gastrointestinal toxicity.