Drug interactions
Linezolid + Opium tincture
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Opium tincture: 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
Opioids given with MAO inhibitors may cause serotonin syndrome or severe opioid toxicity, including hypotension, respiratory depression, somnolence and coma. Linezolid has weak MAO-inhibiting activity, so caution is warranted with opium preparations.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Opium tincture 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
MAO inhibition by linezolid may potentiate serotonergic and CNS-depressant effects of opioids; the exact mechanism for opium alkaloids is uncertain.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and use a non-opioid analgesic or antidiarrheal. If an opioid is unavoidable, start with low doses, titrate slowly and monitor blood pressure, respiratory rate and mental status.
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 Opium tincture?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Opium tincture 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. Opioids given with MAO inhibitors may cause serotonin syndrome or severe opioid toxicity, including hypotension, respiratory depression, somnolence and coma. Linezolid has weak MAO-inhibiting activity, so caution is warranted with opium preparations.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Opium tincture?
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 use a non-opioid analgesic or antidiarrheal. If an opioid is unavoidable, start with low doses, titrate slowly and monitor blood pressure, respiratory rate and mental status.
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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