Drug interactions
Fentanyl transdermal + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Fentanyl transdermal 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
Fentanyl has serotonergic activity and, with an MAO-inhibiting drug like linezolid, serotonin syndrome has been reported. The patch gives prolonged exposure that persists after removal, which makes toxicity harder to reverse.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl transdermal 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
Additive serotonergic effects of fentanyl with MAO inhibition by linezolid.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible and consider a different analgesic or antibiotic. If both are needed, monitor closely for serotonin syndrome and respiratory depression, remembering that fentanyl levels remain after patch removal.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl transdermal with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl transdermal 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 has serotonergic activity and, with an MAO-inhibiting drug like linezolid, serotonin syndrome has been reported. The patch gives prolonged exposure that persists after removal, which makes toxicity harder to reverse.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl transdermal 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 if possible and consider a different analgesic or antibiotic. If both are needed, monitor closely for serotonin syndrome and respiratory depression, remembering that fentanyl levels remain after patch removal.
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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