There is no specific medication for jaundice itself. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the jaundice, which can vary depending on the individual and their age.
For infants:
- Phototherapy: This is the most common treatment for newborn jaundice. It involves exposing the baby to special lights that break down bilirubin in the skin.
- Blood transfusion: In severe cases of jaundice, a blood transfusion may be needed to replace the baby's blood with blood that has normal bilirubin levels.
For adults:
- Treatment for the underlying cause: Jaundice in adults is usually a symptom of another condition, such as hepatitis, gallstones, or liver cancer. Treatment will focus on addressing this underlying condition.
- Medications for symptoms: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms like itching or to help the liver function better.
Some common medications used to treat jaundice-related symptoms include:
- Iron supplements: For iron deficiency anemia.
- Antihistamines: To relieve itching.
- Cholestyramine: To bind bile acids in the gut and reduce itching.
- Rifampin: To treat certain types of infections.
- Naltrexone: To block the effects of opioids.
However, it's important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They can determine the cause of your jaundice and recommend the best course of action for you.
