Drug interactions
Hydrocodone + Linezolid
Severity: Major
Hydrocodone 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 nonselective MAO inhibitor, and combining it with opioids can lead to serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity. Hydrocodone is a weaker serotonergic agent than some opioids, but sedation and respiratory depression remain a concern.
What this interaction means in plain words
Hydrocodone 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.
Hydrocodone belongs to Musculoskeletal; Linezolid belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Reversible MAO inhibition by linezolid may increase serotonergic activity and alter opioid effects.
What to do
Avoid if possible and use an alternative analgesic or antibiotic. If linezolid is essential, monitor closely for serotonin syndrome and CNS or respiratory depression, and use the lowest hydrocodone dose.
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 Hydrocodone
- Alvimopan + Hydrocodone Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Hydrocodone Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Hydrocodone 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 Hydrocodone with Linezolid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Hydrocodone 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 nonselective MAO inhibitor, and combining it with opioids can lead to serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity. Hydrocodone is a weaker serotonergic agent than some opioids, but sedation and respiratory depression remain a concern.
How serious is the interaction between Hydrocodone 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 and use an alternative analgesic or antibiotic. If linezolid is essential, monitor closely for serotonin syndrome and CNS or respiratory depression, and use the lowest hydrocodone dose.
What other medicines interact with Hydrocodone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydrocodone with, for example, Alvimopan, Bupropion-naltrexone, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Hydrocodone page.
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