Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Linezolid: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Opium alkaloids such as morphine given with a MAO-inhibiting antibiotic may cause serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity, including hypotension, hyperthermia, sedation and respiratory depression. The effect of morphine-type opioids is less clearly serotonergic, so the risk is mainly predicted from MAOI class labeling.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Linezolid can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid may potentiate opioid effects through serotonergic and other poorly defined mechanisms.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible and use a non-opioid or alternative analgesic or antispasmodic during linezolid therapy. If unavoidable, give the lowest effective dose and monitor for CNS and respiratory depression and serotonin toxicity.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Linezolid
- Amoxapine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Linezolid Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Linezolid can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Opium alkaloids such as morphine given with a MAO-inhibiting antibiotic may cause serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity, including hypotension, hyperthermia, sedation and respiratory depression. The effect of morphine-type opioids is less clearly serotonergic, so the risk is mainly predicted from MAOI class labeling.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Linezolid?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination if possible and use a non-opioid or alternative analgesic or antispasmodic during linezolid therapy. If unavoidable, give the lowest effective dose and monitor for CNS and respiratory depression and serotonin toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Linezolid?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Linezolid with, for example, Amoxapine, Atomoxetine, Benzphetamine. The full list is on the Linezolid page.
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