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Linezolid and SSRI — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardDrug InteractionsLinezolid and SSRIGPhC CRA

A patient taking citalopram 20 mg daily is prescribed linezolid by the hospital for a resistant infection. They ask why the pharmacist is contacting the prescriber. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: D — Risk of serotonin syndrome with linezolid and citalopram

Linezolid has monoamine oxidase inhibitor activity and can interact with serotonergic antidepressants, increasing serotonin syndrome risk. The infection may require linezolid, so the prescriber must weigh risks and arrange monitoring or temporary antidepressant changes if appropriate. Symptoms include agitation, tremor, sweating, hyperreflexia and diarrhoea. The pharmacist should not simply refuse without specialist discussion.

Reference: BNF