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Methazolamide-associated temporary leukopenia and thrombocytopenia
A M Cohen1, M Prialnik, D S Ben-Nissan
1Department of Medicine B, Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
DICP : the Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Methazolamide therapy for glaucoma caused low white blood cell and platelet counts. Discontinuing the drug led to rapid recovery, highlighting the need for blood monitoring in patients on carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
Background:
- Chronic open-angle glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy.
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) are used to manage intraocular pressure.
- Methazolamide is a commonly prescribed oral CAI.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing methazolamide treatment for glaucoma developed significant leukopenia and thrombocytopenia.
- These hematologic abnormalities occurred after a three-week course of therapy.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of methazolamide therapy led to a complete recovery of white blood cell and platelet counts within five days.
- The adverse effects were directly attributable to the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor.
Implications:
- Regular blood count monitoring (e.g., at six-month intervals) is crucial for patients on oral CAIs like methazolamide.
- Physicians should be vigilant for hematologic side effects when prescribing CAIs.
- This case underscores the importance of prompt intervention and monitoring for drug-induced cytopenias.