Which drug is associated with a risk of developing hemolytic anemia?

Ribavirin is associated with a risk of developing hemolytic anemia due to its unique mechanism of action and its effects on red blood cells. This antiviral medication is often used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C and is known to induce oxidative stress within red blood cells. The drug can lead to alterations in the red blood cell membrane and cause the destruction of these cells, resulting in hemolysis and ultimately hemolytic anemia.

The hemolytic anemia associated with ribavirin can present clinically through symptoms such as fatigue, pallor, and elevated levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream due to the breakdown of red blood cells. This risk highlights the importance of monitoring blood counts during ribavirin therapy so that any potential hematologic adverse effects can be identified and managed appropriately.

In contrast, the other drugs mentioned do not have hemolytic anemia as a prominent side effect associated with their use. For instance, Ledipasvir and Sofosbuvir primarily act by directly inhibiting viral replication and do not have a direct hemolytic effect. Nelfinavir, while it has its own side effects, is not classically associated with hemolytic anemia. Therefore, ribavirin stands out as the antiviral agent with this specific risk