Common Causes Of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Certain Medications

In rare cases, an individual may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome as an adverse effect of certain medications. These medications are those used to treat certain types of cancer, like chemotherapy drugs. These drugs can damage the lining of small blood vessels and stop the synthesis of a molecule called prostacyclin, which is responsible for the inhibition of platelet activation. Because inappropriate platelet activation is typically mediated by prostacyclin in the body, drugs that stop the synthesis of prostacyclin can allow blood clots to develop in the bloodstream easier. Immunosuppressants are used to suppress the immune system in individuals who have an autoimmune disease or who have received an organ transplant. These types of medications are also known to cause rare cases of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Other medications used to stop platelets from activating or sticking together include ticlopidine and quinine are known to induce hemolytic uremic syndrome, as well as some birth control pills.

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