Drug interactions
Linezolid + Nefazodone
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Nefazodone: 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 nefazodone has serotonergic activity through 5-HT2A antagonism and serotonin reuptake inhibition. Together they can cause serotonin syndrome.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Nefazodone 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 effect from MAO inhibition by linezolid plus serotonin reuptake inhibition by nefazodone.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and choose an alternative antibiotic. If linezolid is essential, stop nefazodone and monitor for serotonin toxicity, resuming it 24 hours after the last linezolid dose or after 2 weeks if no earlier.
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 Linezolid with Nefazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Nefazodone 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 nefazodone has serotonergic activity through 5-HT2A antagonism and serotonin reuptake inhibition. Together they can cause serotonin syndrome.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Nefazodone?
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 where possible and choose an alternative antibiotic. If linezolid is essential, stop nefazodone and monitor for serotonin toxicity, resuming it 24 hours after the last linezolid dose or after 2 weeks if no earlier.
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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