Key takeaways
Linezolid (Zyvox) and Cleocin (clindamycin) are both antibiotics, but they are used to treat different types of infections and come in different forms. Linezolid is an oxazolidinone antibiotic available as a tablet, powder for suspension, and injection, and it treats serious bacterial infections like pneumonia and MRSA. It works by stopping bacteria from making proteins, which prevents them from growing. On the other hand, Cleocin is a lincosamide antibiotic used as a vaginal suppository to treat bacterial vaginosis. It also stops bacteria from making proteins but is specifically designed for vaginal use. Linezolid can cause serious side effects like serotonin syndrome and low blood cell counts, while Cleocin can cause vaginal yeast infections and severe diarrhea. Additionally, Cleocin is only available as a brand-name medication, making it potentially more expensive, whereas Linezolid has both brand and generic forms.
