Drug interactions
Linezolid + Selegiline
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Selegiline: 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
Selegiline is an MAO-B inhibitor that becomes non-selective at higher doses, and linezolid inhibits MAO as well. Concurrent use risks serotonin syndrome and hypertensive crisis.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Selegiline 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; Selegiline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive monoamine oxidase inhibition increasing serotonin and catecholamine levels.
What to do
Avoid the combination and choose another antibacterial if possible. If linezolid is essential, monitor for serotonin toxicity and blood pressure, and seek specialist advice about interrupting selegiline.
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 Selegiline
- Amitriptyline + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine long-acting + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Linezolid with Selegiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Selegiline 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. Selegiline is an MAO-B inhibitor that becomes non-selective at higher doses, and linezolid inhibits MAO as well. Concurrent use risks serotonin syndrome and hypertensive crisis.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Selegiline?
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 another antibacterial if possible. If linezolid is essential, monitor for serotonin toxicity and blood pressure, and seek specialist advice about interrupting selegiline.
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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