Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase(G6PD) deficiencyis a genetic condition that can be passed down from parents to their children.
This article lists common things you should avoid if you have this blood disorder.
What Is a G6PD Deficiency?
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G6PD is an important enzyme (protein) in your body that protects your red blood cells from damage.
G6PD Deficiency Drugs to Avoid
Having G6PD deficiency doesn’t mean you could’t take any medications.
Still, you should know common medications to avoid to prevent damage to your red blood cells.
This includes testing breastfeeding infants whose mothers take primaquine.
There are other medications that only cause red cell breakdown if taken in high doses.
Others only trigger problems in specific types of G6PD deficiency.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen don’t cause issues with G6PD and are alternatives to aspirin.
There are some medications and foods you should avoid if you have this condition.
Certain antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-malarial medications can trigger red blood cell breakdown.
Likewise, fava beans have a similar reaction and are best to avoid as well.
2001;85(5):411412. doi:10.1136/adc.85.5.411
