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Linezolid and SSRI — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardDrug InteractionsLinezolid and SSRIGPhC CRA

A hospital discharge prescription includes linezolid for a skin infection in a patient taking paroxetine 20mg daily. The patient asks why the ward pharmacist mentioned monitoring. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: A — Linezolid with paroxetine may increase serotonin toxicity risk

Linezolid has monoamine oxidase inhibitor activity and can interact with serotonergic antidepressants. The combination may increase risk of serotonin toxicity, requiring careful risk-benefit review and monitoring. Symptoms include agitation, tremor, sweating, diarrhoea and hyperreflexia. The other options do not describe the key risk.

Reference: BNF