From the Research
Intravenous glutathione should only be administered by qualified healthcare professionals in appropriate clinical settings, using pharmaceutical-grade glutathione (typically 600-1200mg per session), diluted in normal saline solution, and administered via slow IV infusion over 15-30 minutes. The administration of IV glutathione requires careful consideration of the patient's medical history, allergies, and contraindications, as well as maintenance of aseptic technique throughout the procedure 1. Key aspects of the administration protocol include:
- Using pharmaceutical-grade glutathione
- Diluting the glutathione in normal saline solution (usually 5-10ml of glutathione in 100-250ml of saline)
- Administering the solution via slow IV infusion over 15-30 minutes to prevent rapid infusion reactions
- Monitoring vital signs before, during, and after administration, with emergency medications and equipment readily available
- Maintaining aseptic technique, including hand hygiene, sterile equipment, and proper skin preparation with alcohol or chlorhexidine
- Observing patients for at least 15 minutes post-infusion for potential side effects, such as flushing, dizziness, and rarely allergic reactions
- Documenting the procedure, including dose, patient response, and any adverse effects, for proper medical record-keeping 2, 3, 4, 5.
The most recent and highest quality study, although not directly related to IV administration, highlights the importance of glutathione in regulating oxidative stress and its potential impact on allergic reactions and lung function 5. However, the administration protocol remains largely based on established clinical practices and guidelines.
Some key points to consider when administering IV glutathione include:
- Patient assessment and selection
- Dose and administration protocol
- Monitoring and emergency preparedness
- Aseptic technique and infection control
- Documentation and record-keeping
By following these guidelines and considering the latest evidence, healthcare professionals can safely and effectively administer IV glutathione to patients who may benefit from its antioxidant and detoxification properties.