Which serious side effect is linked to Zonisamide (Zonegran)?

Zonisamide, an anticonvulsant medication used primarily for treating epilepsy and certain types of seizures, has been associated with several potential side effects. Among these, aplastic anemia is a particularly serious concern. Aplastic anemia is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the bone marrow's inability to produce adequate amounts of blood cells, leading to a range of complications such as fatigue, increased risk of infections, and bleeding problems.

The link between zonisamide and aplastic anemia, while not extremely common, is significant enough to warrant caution and monitoring in patients prescribed this medication. Awareness of this risk is crucial for healthcare providers when considering the overall profile of a patient, particularly those who may already have other risk factors for hematologic issues.

In contrast, the other options—hypertension, hepatitis, and gout—are not typically associated with zonisamide in the same way. Hypertension is not a direct side effect of zonisamide, and while hepatitis and gout can occur due to various reasons or other medications, they are not well-documented as significant side effects of zonisamide. Therefore, the recognition of aplastic anemia as a serious side effect linked to zonisamide is vital for safe prescribing and patient management.