Methyldopa-induced immune hemolytic anemia and chronic active hepatitis

Arch Intern Med. 1983 Mar;143(3):592-3.

Abstract

Immune hemolytic anemia and chronic active hepatitis developed concurrently in a 76-year-old man after prolonged therapy with methyldopa. Both complications disappeared following cessation of treatment with the offending drug and a short course of a high-dose corticosteroid (prednisone). Inhibition of T-suppressor lymphocyte function by methyldopa may be instrumental in the emergence of autoimmune complications following usage of the drug.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anemia, Hemolytic / chemically induced*
  • Anemia, Hemolytic / complications
  • Anemia, Hemolytic / drug therapy
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / complications*
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / drug therapy
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methyldopa / adverse effects*
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Methyldopa
  • Prednisone