Clovoxamine and Linezolid Injection: Interaction Details
AI-assisted, pharmacist-reviewed · Source data updated Aug 8, 2026 · Sources: FDA labeling, DDInter 2.0, cited literature
Linezolid Injection
Clovoxamine
No brand names on record
How we grade severity & evidence
Severity levels
- Contraindicated: These should generally not be used together.
- Major: Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.
- Moderate: Can be significant — usually manageable with monitoring.
- Minor: Usually limited clinical impact.
Evidence grades
- Established: Well documented — supported by controlled studies or strong clinical data.
- Probable: Good supporting evidence, though not definitively proven.
- Suspected: Some evidence suggests this interaction, but it is not well established.
- Possible: Limited or conflicting evidence; the interaction may occur.
- Theoretical: Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.
Ratings come from the documented interaction literature and are reviewed by a pharmacist. They describe the documented risk of the combination, not what will necessarily happen to you — your dose, timing, and health picture all matter.
What happens
CNS toxicity or serotonin syndrome (hypertension, hyperthermia, myoclonus, mental status changes)
Interaction Deep Dive
Linezolid is a reversible, nonselective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase. Concurrent administration or overlapping therapy with clovoxamine and a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor may result in CNS toxicity or serotonin syndrome, a hyperserotonergic state characterized by symptoms such as restlessness, myoclonus, changes in mental status, hyperreflexia, diaphoresis, shivering, and tremor. Serious, even fatal, reactions have been reported. There have been spontaneous reports of serotonin syndrome associated with concomitant use of linezolid and serotonergic agents13. If clovoxamine and linezolid are used concomitantly, monitor closely for symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome can be life-threatening. If serotonin syndrome develops, discontinue the offending agents and provide supportive care and other therapy as necessary 2.
Why it happens (mechanism)
Inhibition of serotonin metabolism by monoamine oxidase
Common questions
Can I take Clovoxamine and Linezolid Injection together?
CNS toxicity or serotonin syndrome (hypertension, hyperthermia, myoclonus, mental status changes) Always confirm with your pharmacist or prescriber before making any change.
How serious is the Clovoxamine and Linezolid Injection interaction?
It is rated contraindicated. These should generally not be used together.
How quickly could this interaction happen?
The documented onset is "rapid". Effects can appear quickly, often within about 24 hours of combining the drugs.
How strong is the evidence for this interaction?
The evidence is graded "theoretical". Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.
Questions for your pharmacist
- Does my dose of Clovoxamine or Linezolid Injection need adjusting while I take them together?
- What symptoms should prompt me to call you or my prescriber right away?
- Does the timing of my doses matter for this combination?
- Is there a safer alternative to one of these medications for me?
References (3)
- Product Information: ZYVOX(R) IV injection, oral tablets, oral suspension, linezolid IV injection, oral tablets, oral suspension. Pharmacia and Upjohn Company, New York, NY, 2008.
- Boyer EW & Shannon M: The serotonin syndrome. N Eng J Med 2005; 352(11):1112-1120. PubMed
- Sternbach H: The serotonin syndrome. Am J Psychiatr 1991; 148:705-713. PubMed
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