Glutathione

Overview

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione is a tripeptide of glutamate, cysteine and glycine that acts as the body's principal intracellular antioxidant. It supports detoxification and immune function, and is used intravenously, subcutaneously and orally, including in cosmetic skin lightening settings.

• Antioxidant
• Detoxification
• Immune Support
• Skin Brightening

What the research reports

Reported benefits of Glutathione

Outcomes described across the published Glutathione literature and ongoing study. Read each as research context, not a promised result.

1. 01

   Antioxidant capacity study

   Neutralises reactive oxygen species directly and recycles vitamins C and E, which is its established role in cell biology. Reported in research settings.

2. 02

   Liver detoxification support

   Participates in phase two liver conjugation, the pathway that makes many compounds water soluble for elimination. Noted across the published research record.

3. 03

   Immune cell function study

   Lymphocyte function depends on adequate intracellular glutathione, linking depletion to reduced immune responsiveness. Described in the research record.

4. 04

   Skin pigmentation research

   A 2022 randomised trial reported that L-cystine with reduced glutathione lightened skin and reduced dark spots better than either alone. Reported in research settings.

5. 05

   Precursor supplementation data

   Trials of glycine with N-acetylcysteine reported improved glutathione status, oxidative stress and physical function in older adults. Reported in research settings.

Dosage and protocol

Glutathione dosage and protocol

Protocols use 600 to 2000 mg intravenously, 200 to 600 mg subcutaneously, or 500 to 1000 mg orally in liposomal form. Figures describe study protocols, not a personal regimen.

Route

Intravenous or oral route

Example range

600-2000 mg

Frequency

One to two times weekly

Timing

IV infused 15 to 30 minutes in clinic. Oral taken on empty stomach.

Clinical evidence

Clinical evidence for Glutathione

The published record for Glutathione, labeled by strength so you can see what is settled and what is emerging.

Interactions

How it pairs with other peptides

N-acetylcysteine

A precursor rather than a duplicate. NAC raises glutathione synthesis rather than supplying it directly.

Vitamin C use

Glutathione recycles vitamin C, so the two are often paired in infusion protocols for that reason.

Alpha lipoic acid

Also participates in antioxidant recycling, and the two appear together in many clinic protocols.

Chemotherapy agents

Antioxidant supplementation during cancer treatment needs oncology input, since it may affect drug action.