Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is one of the world's most common inherited blood disorders — and one of its most under-supported. Despite decades of clinical progress in high-income countries, patients across Africa and much of the developing world have had limited access to the nutritional interventions that can meaningfully improve their quality of life.
That is why we developed Glutamed OX™.
What Is Glutamed OX?
Glutamed OX is a medical nutritional supplement formulated specifically for the dietary management of patients with Sickle Cell Disease and oxidative stress-related NAD⁺ depletion in haemolytic disorders. It is developed in partnership with Rigi Care, Switzerland, and distributed by Azela Trading (Pty) Ltd, Cape Town.
It comes as a convenient sachet (6.7 g) — available in a pack of 60 — and can be mixed with water, juice, or soft foods like yoghurt or porridge.
NAPPI Code: 3010592001
Why Does Sickle Cell Disease Need Targeted Nutritional Support?
In SCD, abnormal haemoglobin causes red blood cells to stiffen into a characteristic sickle shape under low-oxygen conditions. These cells struggle to move through small blood vessels, break apart more easily, and generate chronic oxidative stress that depletes the cell's natural protective systems — particularly glutathione (the principal antioxidant inside red blood cells) and NAD⁺ (essential for cellular energy and repair).
Ordinary diets cannot meet the increased metabolic demand that SCD places on the body. This is the core medical nutrition rationale for Glutamed OX.
The Formulation: A Synergistic Approach to Redox Balance
Each Glutamed OX sachet delivers five carefully selected ingredients that work together across converging biological pathways:
L-Glutamine (5 g per sachet)
The cornerstone of the formula. L-glutamine is a conditionally essential amino acid in SCD that:
- Increases NAD⁺ levels through de novo synthesis
- Serves as a precursor to glutathione, the primary antioxidant in red blood cells
- Replenishes the NADH/NADPH pool to support cellular energy and oxidative balance
Clinical evidence is robust: a Phase 3 randomised controlled trial (Niihara et al., 2018, N=230) demonstrated a significant reduction in painful crises and fewer hospitalisations in SCD patients receiving oral L-glutamine — results that led to FDA authorisation for L-glutamine powder to reduce acute SCD complications in patients aged 5 years and older.
Nicotinamide Riboside (50 mg per sachet)
A highly bioavailable form of Vitamin B3 that acts as a direct NAD⁺ precursor via the salvage pathway — independently of de novo synthesis. Where L-glutamine supports NAD⁺ from the ground up, NR tops up the pool directly. Together, they provide dual-pathway NAD⁺ and redox support. The maximum daily dose of 300 mg (6 sachets) aligns with EFSA Novel Food authorisation.
Trehalose (1.5 g per sachet)
A naturally occurring disaccharide that stabilises cell membranes and induces autophagy — the body's own cellular clean-up process. By clearing damaged proteins and organelles, trehalose reduces the oxidative burden in red blood cells and lowers secondary NAD⁺ consumption. It carries GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) status and is hydrolysed slowly, avoiding sharp glycaemic spikes.
Trace Elements: Zinc, Copper & Selenium
Patients with SCD frequently have depleted levels of these essential trace elements due to rapid cell turnover and chronic inflammation. In Glutamed OX, they are included at a carefully balanced ratio (Zinc:Copper = 7:1) to:
- Support antioxidant enzyme activity (including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase)
- Maintain membrane stability
- Regulate immune function and inflammation
Dosing at a Glance
| Weight | Sachets per day | Dose per day |
|---|---|---|
| < 30 kg | 2 | 1 sachet × 2 daily |
| 30–65 kg | 4 | 2 sachets × 2 daily |
| 65 kg + | 6 | 2 sachets × 3 daily |
Doses should be taken in split administrations to maintain stable redox status across the day. Mix each dose with 60 ml of liquid or soft food. Use under medical supervision only.
Who Is Glutamed OX For?
Glutamed OX is indicated for:
- Patients living with Sickle Cell Disease
- Patients with oxidative stress-related NAD⁺ depletion in haemolytic disorders
It is not a cure for SCD, does not replace standard medical treatment, and is not a pain medication. It is nutritional support — to be used consistently and under medical supervision as part of a comprehensive care plan.
Availability
Glutamed OX is available now across South Africa. For ordering information, NAPPI code, or to find a representative in your area, visit www.glutamed.co.za or contact your healthcare provider directly.
To speak with us: info@azelahealth.co.za
Glutamed OX is a Medical Nutritional Supplement. Store in a cool, dry place. Use under medical supervision only. Not suitable for patients with end-stage kidney or liver failure, or those with hypersensitivity to any ingredient.