Linezolid and Venlafaxine interaction
Linezolid and Venlafaxine: both prescribing labels flag this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.
Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.
What the FDA labels say
From the Linezolid label · effective 2026-06-19
• Serotonin Syndrome: Monitor patients taking Linezolid injection concomitantly with serotonergic agents for signs of serotonin syndrome.
If signs or symptoms of serotonin syndrome occur, consider discontinuing Linezolid injection and/or concomitant serotonergic agents.
Serotonin Syndrome Spontaneous reports of serotonin syndrome including fatal cases associated with the concomitant use of linezolid and serotonergic agents have been reported.
Monitor patients for the emergence of serotonin syndrome with the concomitant use of Linezolid injection and serotonergic agents or with use of Linezolid injection in patients with carcinoid syndrome.
Inform patients of the increased risk of serotonin syndrome when Linezolid injection is used concomitantly with serotonergic agents.
From the Venlafaxine (Venlafaxine Hydrochloride) label · effective 2025-01-31
In addition, do not start Venlafaxine Extended Release Tablets in a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue ( 4.1 ).
Starting Venlafaxine Extended Release Tablets in a patient who is being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] .
Serotonin Syndrome and MAOIs: Do not use MAOI’s intended to treat psychiatric disorders with Venlafaxine Extended Release Tablets or within 7 days of stopping treatment with Venlafaxine Extended Release Tablets.
Do not use Venlafaxine Extended Release Tablets within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) The use of MAOI’s intended to treat psychiatric disorders with Venlafaxine Extended Release Tablets or within 7 days of stopping treatment with Venlafaxine Extended Release Tablets is contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Taking more than these two? Interactions stack. Check your whole list at once; it stays in your browser.
Open in the checkerNot medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.