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Drug interactions

Linezolid + Methylphenidate

Severity: Contraindicated

Linezolid and Methylphenidate: contraindicated 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

Methylphenidate increases synaptic catecholamines and linezolid blocks their breakdown through MAO inhibition. This can precipitate a hypertensive crisis, and methylphenidate labeling contraindicates its use with MAOIs.

What this interaction means in plain words

Linezolid and Methylphenidate are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two.

Linezolid belongs to Anti Bacterial; Methylphenidate belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

MAO inhibition by linezolid augments the sympathomimetic effects of methylphenidate.

What to do

Do not co-administer; hold methylphenidate during linezolid therapy and use an alternative antibiotic if the stimulant is essential. If given together in an emergency, monitor blood pressure closely.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Is there an alternative to one of these two medicines for me?
  • If both are essential, who is monitoring me and how often?
  • Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek help straight away?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Linezolid with Methylphenidate?

MediHelp rates the interaction as contraindicated. Linezolid and Methylphenidate are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two. Methylphenidate increases synaptic catecholamines and linezolid blocks their breakdown through MAO inhibition. This can precipitate a hypertensive crisis, and methylphenidate labeling contraindicates its use with MAOIs.

How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Methylphenidate?

MediHelp rates it contraindicated, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Do not co-administer; hold methylphenidate during linezolid therapy and use an alternative antibiotic if the stimulant is essential. If given together in an emergency, monitor blood pressure 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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