Which drug is NOT listed as associated with pancytopenia?

• A. Clozapine
• B. Aripiprazole
• C. Ziprasidone
• D. Quetiapine

Answer: (B)

Pancytopenia means a drop in all three blood cell lines, indicating bone marrow suppression. Among antipsychotics, clozapine is the one most strongly linked to serious bone marrow effects, especially agranulocytosis, which is why it requires regular complete blood count monitoring. Ziprasidone and quetiapine have been reported only rarely to cause hematologic issues such as leukopenia or neutropenia, and in uncommon cases may be associated with broader cytopenias. Aripiprazole, conversely, has a much lower risk of hematologic toxicity and is not typically listed as being associated with pancytopenia. This makes aripiprazole the option that does not belong in a list of drugs associated with pancytopenia. If any symptoms like fever, fatigue, or easy bruising occur, evaluate promptly and stop the suspected medication.