In vitro 24-hour time-kill studies of vancomycin and linezolid in combination versus methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Many clinicians are trying unique strategies, including vancomycin and linezolid in combination, for treatment of patients who do not respond to conventional therapy against methicillin (meticillin)-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. In our study, which illustrated in vitro activity only, no synergistic activity was seen when the two agents were combined. Conversely, antagonistic activity occurred in three of five strains when linezolid was added to vancomycin. Our results indicate that vancomycin and linezolid in combination should be avoided.