Yes. Persons with genetically inadequate activity of the enzyme G6PD are very susceptible to adverse effects after ingestion of specific oxidizing substances present in some food and drugs. In these individuals, the most common sign of toxicity is hemolytic anemia. Specific food and drug substances associated with these effects include fava beans, which contain the oxidants vicine and covicine, many antimalarials, sulfonamide antibiotics and several other drugs. No questions have been raised about the safety of most vitamin and minerals in supplements for G6PD deficient persons, but some texts claim that a few vitamins, notably vitamins C and perhaps K, should be avoided. The following fact sheet reviews the scientific evidence behind those recommendations.

• Fact Sheet: Are vitamins and minerals safe for persons with G6PD deficiency? (PDF) 03.18.05