Glutathione for Antioxidant Defense & Detoxification — Immunity
Master intracellular antioxidant. Strong evidence for cisplatin protection. IV is gold standard route. Oral bioavailability poor. Safety concerns at high doses.
Overview
Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide (glutamate-cysteine-glycine) and the body's master intracellular antioxidant, present in every cell. It plays critical roles in neutralizing reactive oxygen species, supporting liver detoxification, maintaining immune function, and protecting the nervous system. CLINICAL STATUS: Well-supported for cisplatin-induced neuropathy/nephrotoxicity prevention (1.5-3 g/m² IV). Used extensively in wellness clinics for general antioxidant support, skin brightening, and immune enhancement. IV administration provides ~100% bioavailability vs. very poor oral absorption (<10%). IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: 2025 pharmacokinetic research warns that IV glutathione creates non-physiological plasma concentrations that may cause REDUCTIVE STRESS — potentially harmful metabolic effects. Hepatotoxicity reported in 32% of participants in one study at 1200mg 2x/week. The Philippine FDA has issued warnings about IV glutathione for skin lightening. No standardized protocols exist for many wellness indications. Half-life is only ~14 minutes IV, requiring repeated sessions.
Indications
- Cisplatin-induced neuropathy and nephrotoxicity prevention (well-supported)
- Liver detoxification support (increases toxin clearance by up to 30%)
- Immune function enhancement (NK cell activity increased up to 400% within 14 days)
- Neuroprotection - primary brain antioxidant (studied in Parkinson disease)
- Skin brightening and elasticity improvement (controversial - safety concerns for lightening)
- Metabolic support - improved glucose metabolism in diabetic patients
- Cardiovascular protection during interventions
- Mitochondrial function and energy production support
- Post-illness recovery and oxidative stress reduction
Mechanism of Action
Environmental toxins, medications, chronic inflammation, and aging deplete intracellular glutathione, leading to oxidative damage, impaired detoxification, immune dysfunction, and neurodegeneration
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glutathione (reduced) | 500-1200 mg | 1-3 times weekly for 4-8 weeks, then monthly | Standard wellness dose. 30-60 min infusion or 15-20 min IV push. |
| Glutathione (reduced) | 1400 mg | 3 times weekly for 4 weeks | Validated therapeutic dose in clinical research. |
| Glutathione (reduced) | 1.5-3 g/m² (body surface area) | Before each chemotherapy cycle | Given 15-20 min before cisplatin. Well-supported evidence. |
| Glutathione (reduced) | 200-600 mg | Once weekly | Lower bioavailability than IV. Alternative to frequent infusions. |
Evidence Grade
GRADE B
Safety & Contraindications
- CRITICAL: No standardized protocols for many wellness indications
- 2025 research warns of REDUCTIVE STRESS from non-physiological IV concentrations
- Hepatotoxicity: 32% adverse event rate in one study at 1200mg 2x/week
- Anaphylaxis reported (rare) - monitor 30 min post-infusion
- Philippine FDA warnings for IV skin lightening use
- Very short half-life (~14 minutes IV) - effects depend on cellular uptake
- Oral bioavailability very poor (<10%) - IV is gold standard for clinical effect
- Must use pharmaceutical-grade glutathione (not dietary supplement grade)
- FDA alerts on quality concerns with compounded products
- Contraindicated in pre-existing kidney disease at high doses
- No safety data for pregnancy/lactation
- Must be administered by licensed healthcare provider