Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PD)

With regards to the last posting on the prescription for treatment of anti-viral infections, there is an important thing to note.

This prescription is UNSUITABLE for children or anyone with G6PD deficiency.

So what is G6PD?

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PD)is basically an inherited condition where the body does not have enough of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, or G6PD. The effect of G6PD is to help the red blood cells (RBCs) in our body to function normally. The deficiency of G6PD can cause hemolytic anemia, and this usually happens after consumption of certain medications, foods, or even infections.

It is important to note that people with G6PD deficiency normally do not develop any symptoms unless their RBCs have been destroyed. Once their RBCs are destroyed, they will developed a condition called hemolysis. These symptoms will normally disappear once the cause, or trigger, of the G6PD is removed. In very rare cases, G6PD deficiency could also lead to chronic anemia.

With the right precautions in mind, anyone with G6PD deficiency can also lead a healthy and active life. So to all, whenever you are in DOUBT, seek professional advice.