Metronidazole caused profound drug‐induced immune thrombocytopenia

Abstract

Key Clinical MessageMetronidazole is commonly prescribed and has not been known to cause drug‐induced immune thrombocytopenia. We have provided clinical and laboratory evidence with DDabs that metronidazole can cause drug‐induced immune thrombocytopenia (DITP). Providers must be aware of metronidazole causing DITP because recognition of thrombocytopenia is critical and cessation of the drug should occur promptly.

A Case of Aplastic Anemia Associated With Long-Term Metronidazole Use

“…In our case, the patient received 48 to 60 g of metronidazole over approximately 2 months. Lew and Berenberg 8 also described a case in which a 68-year-old Caucasian male was treated with metronidazole, vancomycin, and cefepime for a temporal lobe abscess. After 12 days of therapy, his platelet count began to decrease and further workup revealed a concern for drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia (DTIP).…”