Camphor and G6PD deficiency: what should you know?

G6PD helps red blood cells handle oxidative stress. In G6PD deficiency, certain medicines, chemicals, infections, or substances can damage these cells and trigger haemolysis, when red blood cells break down faster than the body replaces them. Camphor can be present in balms, oils, rubs, moth-repellent products, and some traditional preparations. Risk depends on the product, route, and amount of exposure, so do not assume that a natural or topical product is suitable.

Possible warning signs include unusual tiredness, pale skin, yellowing of the eyes, breathlessness, a fast heartbeat, or dark urine. A clinician may use a blood test and other checks to assess red-cell breakdown.

Check labels for camphor and tell a pharmacist or doctor that you have G6PD deficiency before using a new product. If exposure has occurred, stop the product, keep its packaging, and contact a clinician for tailored advice. Do not induce vomiting after swallowing a camphor product. Keep camphor products away from children and do not apply them to broken skin unless specifically advised.

If you develop dark urine, seek urgent medical advice. You can read more about [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/) and [Pale Skin](/symptoms/pale-skin/).

Get urgent help for severe weakness, fainting, confusion, chest discomfort, difficulty breathing, or rapidly worsening yellowing of the skin or eyes. Prompt assessment is also needed after swallowing camphor, especially if there is vomiting, drowsiness, a seizure, or trouble breathing. Bring the product container if possible.

Ask which ingredients and household products you should avoid, whether you need testing after an exposure, and which pain-relief, cold, or skin products are suitable for you.