15 Common Causes Of Anemia

14. Medications

Certain medications can cause anemia by interfering with the body’s production or utilization of red blood cells. Some of the ways that medications can cause anemia include:

1. Chemotherapy drugs: Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer can cause anemia by suppressing the bone marrow, where red blood cells are produced. This can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body, causing anemia.
2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can cause anemia by causing gastrointestinal bleeding. Prolonged use of NSAIDs can cause irritation and ulceration in the lining of the stomach and intestines, which can lead to chronic blood loss and anemia.
3. Antibiotics: Some antibiotics, such as penicillin and cephalosporins, can cause anemia by destroying red blood cells. This can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body, causing anemia.
4. Anticoagulants: Anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin and heparin, can cause anemia by causing gastrointestinal bleeding. These medications work by thinning the blood and preventing blood clots, but they can also increase the risk of bleeding in the digestive tract, leading to chronic blood loss and anemia.
5. Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressant medications used to treat autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can cause anemia by suppressing the bone marrow and interfering with the production of red blood cells.

Medications can cause anemia by interfering with the body’s production or utilization of red blood cells. This can occur through bone marrow suppression, destruction of red blood cells, gastrointestinal bleeding, or interference with the absorption of nutrients essential for red blood cell production. If you suspect that a medication may be causing your anemia, it is important to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. (14)