Glutathione

Glutathione is a type of antioxidant made naturally by the human body. However, it is also available in the form of a supplement and is claimed to help treat or prevent several conditions, such as glaucoma, heart disease, and asthma. Although studies have shown that glutathione may not be well absorbed when taken by mouth, it may be effective for some uses when administered intravenously.

 

What Is Glutathione?

Glutathione is a molecule made up of amino acids. It is naturally made by the human body, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. People claim these supplements are useful for treating and/or preventing a variety of conditions, including (but not limited to):
 
People also claim that they are useful for slowing the aging process and for whitening the skin.
 
(Click Glutathione Benefits for more information on what this molecule is used for.)
 

How Does Glutathione Work?

Glutathione works as an antioxidant, helping to prevent free radical damage to cells. It is also important for making DNA, proteins, and other substances in the body. It helps to metabolize toxins and carcinogens (cancer-causing compounds) and is important for immune function. The body can make its own glutathione in the liver, and some foods (fruits, vegetables, and meats) contain it. However, studies seem to suggest that it may not be well absorbed when taken by mouth (either as food or as a dietary supplement).
 

Is It Effective?

Taking glutathione orally is probably not effective for any use, as it is not absorbed well when taken by mouth (although more studies are necessary to confirm this). However, taking it intravenously (by IV) may be effective for some uses (see Does Glutathione Work? for more information).
 

Dosing Information

The best doses of glutathione have not been established. Studies have used varying doses, depending on the condition being treated and how it is administered (by mouth, intramuscular injection, IV, or inhalation).
 
(Click Glutathione Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Glutathione

Currently, there are no well-documented side effects.
 
(Click Glutathione Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Glutathione can potentially interact with a few medications (see Glutathione Drug Interactions).
 

Safety of Glutathione

Reasonable doses are probably safe for most people, especially if high-quality supplements are used (as these supplements are less likely to be contaminated or have other problems). Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to glutathione. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this supplement if you:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Is Glutathione Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose.
 
(Click Glutathione Overdose for more information.)
 

Storage Methods for Glutathione

Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store glutathione. As with all medicines and supplements, make sure to keep it out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;