Which of the following medications does not typically cause agranulocytosis?

Agranulocytosis is a serious condition characterized by a dangerously low level of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections. Certain antipsychotic medications are more commonly associated with this side effect due to their pharmacological actions and impact on the bone marrow.

Prozac, or fluoxetine, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and other mood disorders. Its mechanism of action focuses on enhancing serotonin levels in the brain rather than affecting the production of blood cells. While fluoxetine can have side effects, agranulocytosis is not typically one of them, making it the correct choice in this scenario.

In contrast, medications like clozapine are known for a higher risk of agranulocytosis, leading to the necessity for regular monitoring of white blood cell counts in patients. Thorazine, an older antipsychotic, can also cause this side effect, although to a lesser extent than clozapine. Risperdal, while newer and generally better tolerated, can still have adverse effects on blood cell counts in some cases.

Understanding these distinctions highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate medication based on potential side effects, particularly in patients who may