From the Research
Intravenous (IV) glutathione treatment is not recommended for general use due to limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy and safety concerns. Glutathione is an antioxidant naturally produced in the body that helps neutralize free radicals and supports detoxification processes. While some clinics offer IV glutathione for skin lightening, anti-aging, or detoxification purposes, these applications lack robust clinical evidence, as highlighted in a recent systematic review 1. The typical protocol involves 600-1200mg of glutathione administered intravenously over 15-30 minutes, often combined with vitamin C, but treatment regimens vary widely between providers. Potential side effects include allergic reactions, kidney or liver stress, zinc depletion, and risks associated with any IV procedure such as infection or vein damage.
The FDA has not approved IV glutathione for any medical condition in the United States. If you're interested in boosting glutathione levels, safer alternatives include:
- Oral supplements (though these have poor bioavailability)
- Consuming foods rich in glutathione precursors like cruciferous vegetables and garlic
- Taking N-acetylcysteine supplements which help the body produce glutathione naturally, as supported by a study on N-acetylcysteine as a safe antidote for cysteine/glutathione deficiency 2. Always consult with a healthcare provider before pursuing any IV treatments. A recent study on the efficacy of glutathione for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease also suggests that oral administration of glutathione may have potential therapeutic effects, but more research is needed to verify its efficacy 3. Another study highlights the lack of evidence to support the use of IV glutathione for skin lightening and the potential risks associated with its use 4, and a review of glutathione as a skin whitening agent also concludes that there is no evidence to prove its efficacy via intravenous injections 5.