Drug interactions
Linezolid + Lithium
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Lithium: 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
Lithium enhances serotonergic neurotransmission, and with linezolid it may contribute to serotonin syndrome. Reports are limited but the risk is plausible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Lithium 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 belongs to Anti Bacterial; Lithium belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Lithium augments serotonin activity, adding to the MAO inhibition caused by linezolid.
What to do
Use an alternative antibiotic if possible. If linezolid is needed, monitor for serotonin toxicity and consider holding lithium based on psychiatric risk.
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 Lithium
- Lithium + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Lithium + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Aceclofenac + Lithium Major
- Acemetacin + Lithium Major
- Amisulpride + Lithium Major
- Amlodipine-benazepril + Lithium Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Linezolid with Lithium?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Lithium 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. Lithium enhances serotonergic neurotransmission, and with linezolid it may contribute to serotonin syndrome. Reports are limited but the risk is plausible.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Lithium?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an alternative antibiotic if possible. If linezolid is needed, monitor for serotonin toxicity and consider holding lithium based on psychiatric risk.
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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