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Most biologics increase the risk of infections, which of the following also increases the risk of neutropenia?

1) Rituxin (rituximab)
2) Taltz (ixekizumab)
3) Remicade (infliximab)
4) Cimzia (certolizumab pegol)

User Swartzrock
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Final answer:

Rituxin (rituximab) is the biologic drug among those listed that increases the risk of neutropenia, a condition where the neutrophil count is abnormally low, compromising the immune system's ability to fight off infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which among the listed biologic drugs increases the risk of neutropenia. Neutropenia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight off infections. Of the biologic drugs listed, Rituxin (rituximab) is known to increase the risk of neutropenia. Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD20 protein found on the surface of B-lymphocytes, leading to their destruction. While this action is beneficial for treating conditions such as Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, it can also result in decreased immunity, particularly manifested by neutropenia, hence increasing the risk of infections.

User Lightbringer
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