Can patients with favism take Cough-Relieving Loquat Granules?
Dec 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
If the ingredients of Zhi Ke Pi Pa Granules consist only of conventional cough-relieving components such as Loquat Leaf, Stemona Root, and White Front (Bai Qian), and do not contain substances like Honeysuckle, Coptis, or Bezoar that may trigger hemolysis, patients with G6PD deficiency (favism) may take the medication after evaluation by a doctor. These ingredients are considered relatively safe, as they do not induce hemolytic reactions in individuals with G6PD deficiency, and can effectively relieve cough and expel phlegm to alleviate cough symptoms.
Generally, patients with G6PD deficiency (favism) may take Cough-Relieving Loquat Granules as directed by a physician if the formulation does not contain ingredients contraindicated for G6PD deficiency. However, if it contains contraindicated ingredients, it is not recommended. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a doctor in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If the Cough-Relieving Loquat Granules contain only conventional cough-suppressing ingredients such as loquat leaf, stemona root, and white front, and do not include components like honeysuckle, coptis, or bezoar that may trigger hemolysis, patients with G6PD deficiency may take them after medical evaluation. These ingredients are considered relatively safe, unlikely to induce hemolytic reactions in individuals with G6PD deficiency, and can effectively relieve cough and expel phlegm.
However, if the granules contain ingredients such as honeysuckle, coptis, scutellaria, bezoar, or if the full ingredient list is not clearly labeled, patients with G6PD deficiency should avoid taking them. These substances may stimulate red blood cells in affected individuals, triggering acute hemolytic reactions, leading to symptoms such as jaundice and hemoglobinuria. In severe cases, they may impair liver and kidney function and pose serious health risks.
Prior to taking any medication, individuals with G6PD deficiency must carefully check the ingredient list to ensure no contraindicated components are present; they should never purchase or take cough medicines with unknown ingredients without medical guidance. If symptoms such as darkened urine or fatigue occur after taking the medicine, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention. Regular follow-up visits are recommended so doctors can provide safe and appropriate medication recommendations based on individual conditions.
