Drug interactions
Diphenoxylate + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Diphenoxylate 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
Diphenoxylate labeling warns that MAO inhibitors may precipitate hypertensive crisis, and it is an opioid-like agent that can add CNS depression. Linezolid is a weak MAO inhibitor, so a similar reaction is possible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diphenoxylate 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.
Diphenoxylate belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Linezolid belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid may potentiate diphenoxylate effects; the mechanism is not well characterized.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use a different antidiarrheal. If unavoidable, monitor blood pressure and sedation closely.
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
Other interactions of Diphenoxylate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diphenoxylate with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Diphenoxylate 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. Diphenoxylate labeling warns that MAO inhibitors may precipitate hypertensive crisis, and it is an opioid-like agent that can add CNS depression. Linezolid is a weak MAO inhibitor, so a similar reaction is possible.
How serious is the interaction between Diphenoxylate 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 and use a different antidiarrheal. If unavoidable, monitor blood pressure and sedation closely.
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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