askvity

What drugs cause UIP?

Published in Drug-Induced Lung Disease 2 mins read

Several drugs are associated with causing Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP), a specific pattern of lung injury. These drugs fall into several categories:

Here's a breakdown of the drug categories and examples:

Drug Categories Associated with UIP

Category Examples
Antibiotics Nitrofurantoin, Sulfa drugs
Heart Medicines Amiodarone
Chemotherapy Bleomycin, Cyclophosphamide, Methotrexate
Immunotherapy Immunotherapy drugs used to treat cancer
Street Drugs Various illicit substances

Detailed Examples

  • Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics, like nitrofurantoin (commonly used for urinary tract infections) and sulfa drugs, have been linked to drug-induced lung disease, which can sometimes manifest as UIP.

  • Heart Medicines: Amiodarone, a medication used to treat heart arrhythmias, is a well-known cause of pulmonary toxicity, including UIP.

  • Chemotherapy Drugs: Several chemotherapy agents can cause lung damage. Examples include:

    • Bleomycin: Often used in cancer treatment, especially for lymphomas and testicular cancer.
    • Cyclophosphamide: Used in treating various cancers and autoimmune diseases.
    • Methotrexate: Used for cancer, autoimmune conditions, and ectopic pregnancies.
  • Immunotherapy Drugs: These medications, designed to boost the immune system to fight cancer, can sometimes cause immune-related adverse events, including lung inflammation and UIP.

  • Street Drugs: The specific street drugs linked to UIP are variable and often difficult to pinpoint due to poly-substance abuse and inconsistent drug composition.

Important Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and other medications can potentially contribute to UIP. If you are concerned about a medication you are taking, consult your doctor.

Related Articles