Drug interactions
Linezolid + Nortriptyline
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Nortriptyline: 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
Nortriptyline with linezolid may lead to serotonin syndrome or noradrenergic excess. Manifestations include agitation, tremor, clonus, fever and blood pressure swings.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Nortriptyline 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; Nortriptyline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid plus reuptake inhibition by nortriptyline raises monoamine concentrations.
What to do
Avoid if an alternative antibiotic is available. If linezolid must be given, stop nortriptyline and monitor for serotonin toxicity.
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 Nortriptyline
- Disopyramide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Linezolid with Nortriptyline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Nortriptyline 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. Nortriptyline with linezolid may lead to serotonin syndrome or noradrenergic excess. Manifestations include agitation, tremor, clonus, fever and blood pressure swings.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Nortriptyline?
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 an alternative antibiotic is available. If linezolid must be given, stop nortriptyline and monitor for serotonin toxicity.
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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