STOP — Contraindicated
FDA contraindication — do not co-administer. Use alternative antibiotics or discontinue paroxetine before starting linezolid.
Evidence level: STRONG
Paroxetine (Paxil) combined with the antibiotic linezolid can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome. The FDA says these should not be used together.
Linezolid (reversible MAO inhibitor) plus paroxetine (SSRI). FDA contraindication for serotonin syndrome risk.
Stop paroxetine before starting linezolid if possible. Be aware that paroxetine can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly — your doctor should manage the taper.
Take Paroxetine and Linezolid at their usual prescribed times. Some antibiotics (linezolid especially) have serotonergic properties and should never be combined with SSRIs — if you are on linezolid, confirm this combination with your prescriber. Standard antibiotics like amoxicillin or azithromycin are generally safe alongside SSRIs.
Higher risk for: elderly, those on multiple serotonergic drugs, people with liver impairment, CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, recent dose changes, or concurrent use of MAOIs or triptans.
High fever, agitation, tremor, muscle rigidity, rapid heartbeat, blood pressure swings, seizures
Discuss paroxetine taper schedule. Ask about alternative antibiotics. Paroxetine withdrawal can mimic serotonin syndrome — get guidance on distinguishing them.
Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.
Paroxetine (Paxil) combined with the antibiotic linezolid can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome. The FDA says these should not be used together.
Take Paroxetine and Linezolid at their usual prescribed times. Some antibiotics (linezolid especially) have serotonergic properties and should never be combined with SSRIs — if you are on linezolid, confirm this combination with your prescriber. Standard antibiotics like amoxicillin or azithromycin are generally safe alongside SSRIs.
High fever, agitation, tremor, muscle rigidity, rapid heartbeat, blood pressure swings, seizures
Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.
Discuss paroxetine taper schedule. Ask about alternative antibiotics. Paroxetine withdrawal can mimic serotonin syndrome — get guidance on distinguishing them.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).