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Medications Linked to Lymphoma (And What to Know About Treatment)

While lymphoma is often caused by genetic or immune-related factors, some medications have been linked to increased risk—especially those that alter the immune system.

Knowing which drugs to watch out for can help you talk with your doctor and make informed decisions about your health.

Here’s a list of medications associated with lymphoma risk, plus current treatment options including new breakthroughs.

Medications That Have Been Linked to Lymphoma

1. TNF Inhibitors (Biologics)

Used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s, and psoriasis.

  • Examples: infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept
  • Rare cases have reported links to lymphoma, especially in younger patients

2. Immunosuppressants

Prescribed after organ transplants or for autoimmune conditions.

  • Examples: azathioprine, cyclosporine, methotrexate
  • Long-term use may reduce immune surveillance, potentially increasing cancer risk

3. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)

A common diuretic used to treat high blood pressure.

  • Some studies have linked HCTZ to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and skin cancers, though the risk appears small

4. Phenytoin and Carbamazepine

Anti-seizure medications that may carry a small increased risk for certain lymphomas

  • Often monitored closely in long-term users

5. Certain Chemotherapy Agents

Ironically, some cancer drugs used in other treatments may increase the risk of secondary lymphoma

  • Particularly true for older alkylating agents like cyclophosphamide

If you're taking these medications and have concerns about risk, it’s important to speak to your doctor before stopping or switching.

New and Promising Treatment Options for Lymphoma

Lymphoma treatment depends on the type (Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin), stage, and patient health. Here are current options, including a new standout:

1. Epcoritamab-bysp

A recently approved bispecific antibody therapy for relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma

  • Engages T-cells to attack lymphoma cells directly
  • Administered as a subcutaneous injection
  • Benefit: Fewer side effects compared to traditional chemo, high response rate in difficult cases

2. CAR T-Cell Therapy

  • Patient’s T-cells are engineered to target lymphoma
  • Highly effective for relapsed lymphoma, especially in younger patients

3. Immunotherapy with Checkpoint Inhibitors

  • Drugs like pembrolizumab help unmask cancer cells so the immune system can attack
  • Often used in Hodgkin lymphoma or those with specific genetic profiles

4. Targeted Therapies

  • Includes drugs like ibrutinib, venetoclax, or lenalidomide
  • Targets specific proteins in cancer cells with fewer side effects

5. Traditional Chemotherapy + Monoclonal Antibodies

  • CHOP or ABVD regimens often combined with rituximab
  • Still widely used in newly diagnosed cases

Lymphoma treatment has come a long way, with newer therapies improving both survival and quality of life.

Conclusion

If you’re taking immune-altering medications, it’s smart to stay informed about potential links to lymphoma—even if the risk is small. Should you or a loved one face a diagnosis, know that powerful new treatments like epcoritamab-bysp offer real hope. Early detection and personalized care remain the key to recovery.

Sources

American Cancer Society – https://www.cancer.org

Lymphoma Research Foundation – https://www.lymphoma.org

FDA Drug Safety Communications – https://www.fda.gov

National Cancer Institute – https://www.cancer.gov

Epcoritamab-bysp Prescribing Info – https://www.epcoritamab.com