Drug interactions
Carbidopa-levodopa + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Carbidopa-levodopa and Linezolid: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Linezolid is a reversible non-selective MAO inhibitor, and combined with levodopa it may cause a hypertensive reaction through accumulation of catecholamines. Serotonergic effects may also occur.
What this interaction means in plain words
Carbidopa-levodopa 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.
Carbidopa-levodopa belongs to Central Nervous System; Linezolid belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid reduces catecholamine breakdown, potentiating the pressor effect of dopamine and norepinephrine formed from levodopa.
What to do
Avoid if possible and choose another antibiotic. If linezolid is required, monitor blood pressure closely and watch for signs of 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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References
- Linezolid 600 mg Film-Coated Tablets - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (class statement: dopaminergic agents; "dopaminergic agents (e.g. dopamine, dobutamine)") — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Carbidopa-levodopa
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Selegiline transdermal Contraindicated
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Carbidopa-levodopa Major
- Asenapine + Carbidopa-levodopa Major
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 Carbidopa-levodopa with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Carbidopa-levodopa 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. Linezolid is a reversible non-selective MAO inhibitor, and combined with levodopa it may cause a hypertensive reaction through accumulation of catecholamines. Serotonergic effects may also occur.
How serious is the interaction between Carbidopa-levodopa 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 if possible and choose another antibiotic. If linezolid is required, monitor blood pressure closely and watch for signs of serotonin toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Carbidopa-levodopa?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Carbidopa-levodopa with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline transdermal. The full list is on the Carbidopa-levodopa page.
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