Captopril-associated agranulocytosis

Summary Three cases of captopril-associated neutropenia are des­ cribed, which illustrate the clinical presentation, variable pre­ disposing factors and outcome of this rare but potentially serious adverse event. Particular risk factors of renal failure and collagen vascular disease were present in only 1 patient, while a second patient had reversible mild renal impairment. The doses of captopril used ranged from 25 mg to 50 mg 3 times a day. Two patients recovered after withdrawal of the drug but the third died of septicaemia. Captopril-associated agranulocytosis is reviewed. S Air Med J 1991; 79: 399-400.