Hemolytic anemia is a condition in which the body produces too few healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia. Treatment usually involves medications to reduce red blood cell destruction and replace lost red blood cells.
Medications for Hemolytic Anemia
Corticosteroids are medications that can reduce red blood cell destruction. Commonly used corticosteroids include prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone.
Immunosuppressive Agents are medications used to suppress the immune system. These drugs can help reduce red blood cell destruction. Examples of immunosuppressive agents include cyclosporine, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil.
Antibiotics are sometimes used to treat infections that can cause hemolytic anemia. Common antibiotics used for this purpose are penicillin, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
Blood Transfusions can be used to replace lost red blood cells. In some cases, blood transfusions are used in combination with other medications to treat hemolytic anemia.
Iron Supplements can be used to treat iron deficiency anemia, which can be caused by hemolytic anemia. Iron supplements are available over-the-counter and can be taken as pills or liquids.
Folic Acid Supplements can help reduce red blood cell destruction and replace lost red blood cells. Folic acid supplements can be taken as pills or liquids.
