G6PD

What Does This Test Check?

G6PD is an enzyme that protects red blood cells from damage. A deficiency is inherited and can cause anaemia episodes after certain foods, infections or drugs.

Lola Health lists this as an add-on biomarker at £30, posted as a home sample with results in one to four working days. It cannot be bought on its own: you pick it while ordering one of Lola's main blood tests, so it suits someone who already knows which extra marker they want.

A low result may indicate G6PD deficiency, which matters most as a warning for which medicines to avoid. Most people with the deficiency live normal lives once they know. Whatever the reading, an out-of-range result needs a doctor who can see the whole picture, so go through it with your GP before acting on it.