Drug interactions
Linezolid + Sufentanil
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Sufentanil: 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 opioid toxicity, with hypotension, respiratory depression and coma. Linezolid's weak MAO inhibition makes this combination hazardous, although sufentanil is less serotonergic than some opioids.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Sufentanil 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; Sufentanil belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Possible serotonergic potentiation and enhanced opioid CNS depression with MAO inhibition.
What to do
Avoid if possible. If an opioid is essential, use small titrated doses with monitoring of blood pressure, respiratory function and signs of serotonin syndrome.
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 Sufentanil
- Alprazolam + Sufentanil Major
- Amitriptyline + Sufentanil Major
- Amobarbital + Sufentanil Major
- Aripiprazole + Sufentanil Major
- Asenapine + Sufentanil Major
- Baclofen + Sufentanil Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Linezolid with Sufentanil?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Sufentanil 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 opioid toxicity, with hypotension, respiratory depression and coma. Linezolid's weak MAO inhibition makes this combination hazardous, although sufentanil is less serotonergic than some opioids.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Sufentanil?
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 possible. If an opioid is essential, use small titrated doses with monitoring of blood pressure, respiratory function and signs of serotonin syndrome.
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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