Drug interactions
Linezolid + Pentazocine
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Pentazocine: 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 non-selective MAO inhibitor, and combining it with pentazocine, which has serotonergic activity, may precipitate serotonin syndrome with agitation, hyperthermia, tremor and autonomic instability. MAOIs can also potentiate opioid effects such as hypotension and CNS depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Pentazocine 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; Pentazocine belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid adds to the serotonergic activity of pentazocine, and MAOIs also potentiate opioid CNS and cardiovascular effects through a poorly defined mechanism.
What to do
Avoid the combination and choose a non-serotonergic analgesic or alternative antibiotic where possible. If linezolid is essential, stop pentazocine and monitor closely for serotonin toxicity and CNS depression.
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 Pentazocine
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Pentazocine Contraindicated
- Olanzapine / samidorphan + Pentazocine Contraindicated
- Pentazocine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Pentazocine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Pentazocine Major
- Alprazolam + Pentazocine Major
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 Pentazocine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Pentazocine 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 non-selective MAO inhibitor, and combining it with pentazocine, which has serotonergic activity, may precipitate serotonin syndrome with agitation, hyperthermia, tremor and autonomic instability. MAOIs can also potentiate opioid effects such as hypotension and CNS depression.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Pentazocine?
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 and choose a non-serotonergic analgesic or alternative antibiotic where possible. If linezolid is essential, stop pentazocine and monitor closely for serotonin toxicity and CNS depression.
What other medicines interact with Pentazocine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Pentazocine with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Olanzapine / samidorphan, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Pentazocine page.
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