Glutathione
Quick Facts
- What it is: Glutathione is your body's most powerful built-in antioxidant — a small protein made from three amino acids that every cell in your body produces and relies on.
- Main uses: Widely used for detoxification support, immune health, skin brightness, and protecting cells from oxidative damage.
- Best for: Detox and liver support, Skin brightening and anti-aging, Immune system health
- Active ingredients: Reduced L-Glutathione (GSH), Cysteine, Glutamic acid, Glycine
- Forms: Oral capsule, Sublingual tablet, Liposomal liquid, IV infusion, Nebulized inhalation, Topical cream
- Time to effect: Noticeable effects in 4–8 weeks with consistent use; IV or liposomal forms may act faster.
- Side effects: Generally very well tolerated; high doses may occasionally cause bloating, loose stools, or mild allergic reactions.
Keep track of what you try
The app remembers what you have started, including Glutathione, reminds you when to take it, and records whether it helped — so the next decision is based on your own notes rather than memory.
What is Glutathione?
Glutathione is a naturally occurring tripeptide made up of the amino acids cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. It is an antioxidant that is found in all cells in the body and helps to neutralize free radicals and prevent damage to cells and DNA.
How does it work?
Glutathione works as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals, which can cause damage to cells and DNA. It also helps to recycle other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, allowing them to continue to protect the body from oxidative stress. Additionally, glutathione helps to support the immune system by reducing inflammation and removing toxins.
What are the active ingredients that are important for its medicinal properties?
The active ingredient in glutathione is glutathione itself.
What forms does it come in?
Glutathione can be found in various forms including oral supplements, injections, creams, and sprays.
What if there's an imbalance or deficiency?
If there is an imbalance or deficiency of glutathione in the body, it can lead to an increased risk of oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage to cells and DNA.
When was it first used for medicinal purposes?
The use of glutathione for medicinal purposes dates back to the 1980s.
If this is an emergency
Some reactions to Glutathione need urgent care. Call your local emergency number or go to an emergency department straight away — do not wait to see whether it passes.
Who should avoid Glutathione?
- Do not breathe in nebulized glutathione if you have asthma, since it can trigger bronchospasm (sudden tightening of the airways).
- Stop taking it and get help if you get a rash, itching, or swelling, as these can be signs of an allergic reaction.
- Do not take more than 2,000 mg a day by mouth.
- Avoid high oral doses if they give you loose stools, bloating, or cramps, and drop back to a lower dose.
- Do not stay on high doses for years without checking your zinc, since long use can lower zinc levels.
- Never inject glutathione yourself or use an injection from an unlicensed source or clinic.
- Do not take it during chemotherapy unless your cancer doctor says it is safe for you.
- Avoid it in pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless your doctor approves, since its safety is not known.
- Do not give it to a child without advice from that child's doctor.
When should you see a doctor?
Stop and get help right away if you wheeze, feel your chest tighten, or struggle to breathe. Do the same for swelling of the face, lips, or throat. These signs can mean a severe allergic reaction.
Call your doctor within a day if a rash spreads or itching gets worse. Book a visit if loose stools or cramps last more than a few days. Talk to your doctor first about any IV or inhaled form.
Evidence grades and traditional-use labels are explained in our methodology. Nothing here is medical advice.
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