Drug interactions
Linezolid + Trazodone
Severity: Major
Linezolid and Trazodone: 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
Trazodone has serotonergic activity through serotonin reuptake inhibition and receptor effects, and linezolid inhibits MAO. Together they can precipitate serotonin syndrome, although reported cases are uncommon.
What this interaction means in plain words
Linezolid and Trazodone 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; Trazodone belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Pharmacodynamic serotonergic synergy between MAO inhibition and serotonin reuptake inhibition.
What to do
Use an alternative antibiotic if feasible. If linezolid is needed, monitor for serotonin syndrome symptoms and consider holding trazodone for the course.
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 Trazodone
- Arsenic trioxide + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Levoketoconazole + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Trazodone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Linezolid with Trazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Linezolid and Trazodone 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. Trazodone has serotonergic activity through serotonin reuptake inhibition and receptor effects, and linezolid inhibits MAO. Together they can precipitate serotonin syndrome, although reported cases are uncommon.
How serious is the interaction between Linezolid and Trazodone?
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 an alternative antibiotic if feasible. If linezolid is needed, monitor for serotonin syndrome symptoms and consider holding trazodone for the course.
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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