Linezolid Injection and Nefopam: Interaction Details
AI-assisted, pharmacist-reviewed · Source data updated Aug 8, 2026 · Sources: FDA labeling, DDInter 2.0, cited literature
Linezolid Injection
Nefopam
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
An increased risk of central nervous system excitation
Interaction Deep Dive
Nefopam inhibits the neuronal uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, and limited experience with nefopam toxicity has revealed central nervous system stimulation characterized by convulsions, hallucinations, and agitation. Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors also increase the concentration of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in storage sites throughout the nervous system. Because of the potential for central nervous system overstimulation, the concurrent use of nefopam and MAO inhibitors is contraindicated1.
Why it happens (mechanism)
Additive norepinephrine and serotonin neuronal uptake inhibition
Common questions
Can I take Linezolid Injection and Nefopam together?
An increased risk of central nervous system excitation Always confirm with your pharmacist or prescriber before making any change.
How serious is the Linezolid Injection and Nefopam 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 Linezolid Injection or Nefopam 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 (1)
- Pillans PI & Woods DJ: Adverse reactions associated with nefopam. NZ Med J 1995; 108:832-834.
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