Drugs Causing Megaloblastic Anemia⚡Mnemonic⚡

Mnemonic : MEGALOBLASTIC

Methotrexate: Methotrexate, an anticancer drug, can lead to megaloblastic anemia by inhibiting folate metabolism.

Ethionamide: Ethionamide, used to treat tuberculosis, can cause megaloblastic anemia due to its interference with vitamin B6.

Glucarpidase: Glucarpidase is sometimes used to counteract the effects of methotrexate-induced megaloblastic anemia.

Azathioprine: Azathioprine, an immunosuppressive medication, can lead to megaloblastic anemia as a side effect.

Lamivudine: Lamivudine, an antiretroviral drug, may contribute to megaloblastic anemia by affecting folate metabolism.

Omeprazole: Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, can reduce the absorption of vitamin B12, potentially leading to megaloblastic anemia.

Bactrim (Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim): Bactrim, an antibiotic combination, can interfere with folate metabolism, resulting in megaloblastic anemia.

Leflunomide: Leflunomide, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, can cause megaloblastic anemia as a rare adverse effect.

Sulfa Drugs: Various sulfonamide drugs can induce megaloblastic anemia by interfering with folate metabolism.

Tetracycline: Tetracycline antibiotics can reduce the absorption of vitamin B12, potentially leading to megaloblastic anemia.

Isoniazid: Isoniazid, used in tuberculosis treatment, can lead to megaloblastic anemia due to its effect on vitamin B6.

Cycloserine: Cycloserine, another tuberculosis medication, can cause megaloblastic anemia as a side effect.