Drugs Used to Treat Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells. This can cause anemia, fatigue, and other symptoms. Treatment for AIHA usually involves medications that suppress the immune system.
Corticosteroids are the most commonly used medications to treat AIHA. They work by suppressing the body’s immune response and reducing the destruction of red blood cells. Corticosteroids are usually taken by mouth or intravenously (IV). Common corticosteroids used to treat AIHA include prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone.
Immunosuppressants are another type of medication used to treat AIHA. These medications work by suppressing the immune system and reducing the destruction of red blood cells. Common immunosuppressants used to treat AIHA include cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a type of medication used to treat AIHA. It is a solution made from human plasma that contains antibodies that can help reduce the destruction of red blood cells. IVIG is usually given as an infusion into a vein.
Rituximab is a medication used to treat AIHA. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by targeting and destroying certain types of immune cells. Rituximab is usually given as an infusion into a vein.
Splenectomy is a type of surgery that may be used to treat AIHA. During a splenectomy, the spleen is removed. The spleen is responsible for filtering red blood cells, and removing it can help reduce the destruction of red blood cells in people with AIHA.
Blood transfusions may also be used to treat AIHA. Blood transfusions can help replace red blood cells that have been destroyed by the body’s immune system.
