Management of Cough and Colds in G6PD Deficiency

Safe Medication Options

Acetaminophen is safe and can be used at standard pediatric doses for fever and discomfort associated with upper respiratory infections in a 1-year-old baby with G6PD deficiency 1
Penicillins, including amoxicillin, are safe and can be used in normal therapeutic doses for bacterial complications like otitis media or pneumonia in G6PD-deficient patients 1

The American Academy of Pediatrics and other guideline societies recommend avoiding seven definitively contraindicated medications in G6PD deficiency, including Dapsone 1, Nitrofurantoin 2, Phenazopyridine 2, Primaquine 1, and Rasburicase 1

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend managing infections aggressively with a low threshold to treat, as infections themselves can trigger hemolysis in G6PD-deficient infants 3
Ensure strict hand washing and implement infectious agent precautions to prevent infection in G6PD-deficient patients 3
Keep immunizations up to date, including influenza vaccine for the patient and household members, to prevent infections that can trigger hemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients 3
Administer palivizumab (Synagis) during RSV season for high-risk infants with G6PD deficiency 3
Ensure pneumococcal vaccination (Prevnar) is current as part of routine immunization to prevent infections that can trigger hemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients 3

Monitor for signs of acute hemolysis, including jaundice, dark urine, and pallor, when the infant has any infection 1, 2
Seek medical attention promptly for common symptoms like cough or fever, as they may indicate a more serious underlying condition in G6PD-deficient infants 3