Drug-Induced Immune Hemolytic Anemia

What can be done to prevent the disease?

People who have suffered from hemolytic anemia due to a particular drug should avoid that medication. However, if the reaction has not occurred in the past it is hard to predict. Often, it cannot be avoided.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Persons with hemolysis may develop severe shortage of red blood cells. People with underlying lung or heart disease may be at risk for further damage to the body if the blood counts remain low. For example, a person can suffer a heart attack as the result of very low blood counts

What are the risks to others?

Drug induced immune hemolysis is not contagious. It does not place other people at risk.