Drug interactions
Linezolid + Tramadol
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Tramadol: 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 weak reversible MAO inhibitor, and with tramadol it can precipitate serotonin syndrome and increase seizure risk. Reports of serotonin toxicity with linezolid and serotonergic drugs are well described.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Tramadol 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; Tramadol belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition by linezolid adds to tramadol's serotonin reuptake inhibition.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use a non-serotonergic analgesic during linezolid therapy. If unavoidable, monitor closely for serotonin toxicity, particularly in the first days.
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 Tramadol
- Isocarboxazid + Tramadol Contraindicated
- Olanzapine / samidorphan + Tramadol Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Tramadol Contraindicated
- Procarbazine + Tramadol Contraindicated
- Rasagiline + Tramadol Contraindicated
- Safinamide + Tramadol Contraindicated
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 Tramadol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Tramadol 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 weak reversible MAO inhibitor, and with tramadol it can precipitate serotonin syndrome and increase seizure risk. Reports of serotonin toxicity with linezolid and serotonergic drugs are well described.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Tramadol?
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 use a non-serotonergic analgesic during linezolid therapy. If unavoidable, monitor closely for serotonin toxicity, particularly in the first days.
What other medicines interact with Tramadol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Tramadol with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Tramadol page.
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