Background: Co-prescription of linezolid and serotonergic agents (SSRIs, SNRIs, NaSSA, TCAs) can lead to serotonin syndrome, this study seeks to identify prescribing practise of these agents.
Methods: Study of all general hospital inpatients prescribed intravenous linezolid in a 3-month period, using drug charts and clinical notes.
Results: Co-prescription occurred in 20% with SSRIs most frequently concurrently used. There were no cases of serotonin syndrome. There was no evidence in clinical notes of vigilance for potential interaction.
Conclusion: Co-prescription is common; awareness of potentially serious interaction is not evident in current practice.