Drug interactions
Diamorphine + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Diamorphine and Linezolid: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: Health Canada product monograph
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
Opioids given with MAO inhibitors may cause serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity such as hypotension, hyperthermia, sedation and respiratory depression. Diamorphine is a morphine-type opioid, so the risk is mainly predicted from MAOI class warnings.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diamorphine 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 CNS effects through incompletely defined serotonergic and other mechanisms.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and use an alternative analgesic or antibiotic. If an opioid is required, give small titrated doses and monitor respiration, blood pressure and mental status.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diamorphine with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Diamorphine 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. Opioids given with MAO inhibitors may cause serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity such as hypotension, hyperthermia, sedation and respiratory depression. Diamorphine is a morphine-type opioid, so the risk is mainly predicted from MAOI class warnings.
How serious is the interaction between Diamorphine 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 where possible and use an alternative analgesic or antibiotic. If an opioid is required, give small titrated doses and monitor respiration, blood pressure and mental status.
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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