Drug interactions
Fentanyl + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Fentanyl 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
Linezolid is a reversible non-selective MAO inhibitor, and combining it with fentanyl raises the risk of serotonin syndrome. Cases have been reported in patients also taking other serotonergic drugs.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl 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.
Fentanyl belongs to Musculoskeletal; Linezolid belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid together with the serotonergic activity of fentanyl increases synaptic serotonin.
What to do
Avoid if possible or use an alternative opioid with less serotonergic activity. If combined, monitor for agitation, tremor, clonus, hyperthermia and autonomic instability.
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 Fentanyl
- Alvimopan + Fentanyl Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Fentanyl 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 Fentanyl with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl 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 combining it with fentanyl raises the risk of serotonin syndrome. Cases have been reported in patients also taking other serotonergic drugs.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl 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 or use an alternative opioid with less serotonergic activity. If combined, monitor for agitation, tremor, clonus, hyperthermia and autonomic instability.
What other medicines interact with Fentanyl?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Fentanyl with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Fentanyl page.
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