Drug interactions
Linezolid + Paroxetine
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Paroxetine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Paroxetine with linezolid can precipitate serotonin syndrome, which may be severe. Symptoms include hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus and confusion.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Paroxetine 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; Paroxetine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Linezolid MAO inhibition and paroxetine serotonin reuptake inhibition give additive serotonergic effects.
What to do
Use a non-serotonergic antibiotic when possible. If linezolid is essential, stop paroxetine and monitor for serotonin toxicity, recognizing that paroxetine withdrawal may occur.
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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References
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 Paroxetine
- Isocarboxazid + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Linezolid with Paroxetine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Paroxetine 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. Paroxetine with linezolid can precipitate serotonin syndrome, which may be severe. Symptoms include hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus and confusion.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Paroxetine?
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 a non-serotonergic antibiotic when possible. If linezolid is essential, stop paroxetine and monitor for serotonin toxicity, recognizing that paroxetine withdrawal may occur.
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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