Drug interactions
Desipramine + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Desipramine and Linezolid: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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 with desipramine can cause serotonin syndrome, although desipramine is more noradrenergic than other tricyclics. Reactions may include confusion, tremor, hyperreflexia and fever.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desipramine 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.
Desipramine belongs to Central Nervous System; Linezolid belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid plus monoamine reuptake inhibition by desipramine increases monoamine activity.
What to do
Avoid if an alternative exists. If linezolid is needed, stop desipramine and monitor for serotonin toxicity and hypertensive effects.
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
Other interactions of Linezolid
- Amoxapine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Linezolid Contraindicated
Other interactions of Desipramine
- Desipramine + Disopyramide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desipramine with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desipramine 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 with desipramine can cause serotonin syndrome, although desipramine is more noradrenergic than other tricyclics. Reactions may include confusion, tremor, hyperreflexia and fever.
How serious is the interaction between Desipramine 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 an alternative exists. If linezolid is needed, stop desipramine and monitor for serotonin toxicity and hypertensive effects.
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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