NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

L-glutamine is approved for patients with sickle cell disease aged?

1. 2 years and above

2. 5 years and above

3. 10 years and above

4. 18 years and above

The correct answer is: 5 years and above

L-glutamine is approved for patients with sickle cell disease aged 5 years and above. This amino acid derivative is indicated to reduce the acute complications of sickle cell disease in this specific age group. It helps to increase the amount of fetal hemoglobin in red blood cells, which leads to improved red blood cell function and decreased episodes of pain crises. For patients younger than 5 years, the safety and efficacy of L-glutamine have not been established, therefore it is important to adhere to the approved age range for this medication.