Which antimalarial drug can be safely administered baby with gluc ose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase’ deficiency:
## **Core Concept**
The question tests knowledge of antimalarial drugs and their safety profiles, particularly in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. G6PD deficiency is a condition that affects red blood cells, making them more susceptible to hemolysis under certain conditions, including the administration of specific drugs. Antimalarial drugs vary in their potential to induce hemolysis in G6PD-deficient individuals.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Chloroquine is generally considered safe in patients with G6PD deficiency. It does not significantly increase the risk of hemolysis in these patients, making it a suitable option for treating malaria in individuals with this condition. The mechanism of action of chloroquine involves interfering with the detoxification of heme in malaria parasites, ultimately leading to the death of the parasite. This mechanism does not significantly impact G6PD-deficient red blood cells.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** Primaquine is known to cause hemolysis in individuals with G6PD deficiency because it generates reactive oxygen species that red blood cells cannot handle due to their enzymatic deficiency. Therefore, it is not safe for individuals with G6PD deficiency.
- **Option B:** Quinine, while not as commonly associated with hemolysis as primaquine, can still pose a risk, especially at higher doses, and its use requires caution in G6PD-deficient patients.
- **Option D:** Mefloquine does not have a significant association with hemolysis in G6PD deficiency but is not the best answer here given the context of the question and the safety profile of chloroquine.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **primaquine** is a notorious cause of hemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients. Before administering primaquine, screening for G6PD deficiency is crucial, especially in populations where the deficiency is prevalent. Chloroquine and mefloquine are generally safer alternatives for malaria treatment in such cases.
## **Correct Answer:** C. Chloroquine.