Education only · provider review required
Glutathione · A tripeptide antioxidant, oral to IV
The body's own antioxidant, sold as a supplement, an IV drip and a "skin-lightening" injection.
Medically reviewed by Bernard Garcia, MD
What it is
Glutathione is a tripeptide (three amino acids) made by every cell and central to antioxidant defence. Oral supplements, IV infusions and injections are widely marketed for detox, immunity and skin lightening.
Oral absorption is poor and the IV/injection uses are not FDA-approved; regulators in several countries have warned against injectable glutathione for skin lightening.
How it works
Glutathione neutralises reactive oxygen species and supports liver detoxification pathways. Raising blood levels by supplement or infusion has been studied in small trials; clinically meaningful outcomes in healthy people are not established. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a precursor, has more evidence for specific uses.
Research status
| Research area | Status |
|---|---|
| Antioxidant physiology | Established biology |
| IV / injection for skin lightening | Not approved · safety warnings |
| General wellness or "detox" | Not established |
| NAC as precursor for specific indications | Approved (acetaminophen overdose) · other uses studied |
Status reflects published research context only and is not a statement of safety, efficacy, or suitability for any person.
Is it legal?
Oral glutathione is sold as a dietary supplement. Injectable and IV glutathione are not FDA-approved drugs; compounded versions are a prescriber's decision and have been the subject of FDA safety communications. This is a general note, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is glutathione a peptide?
Yes — a tripeptide. It is included here because it is marketed alongside peptides.
Do oral supplements raise levels?
Modestly at best; absorption is limited. Liposomal and precursor approaches are studied but not conclusive.
Are glutathione injections safe?
Injectable products carry sterility and dosing risks, and regulators have issued warnings about skin-lightening use. A provider will discuss this before anything else.
Next step
Next step: a 3-minute confidential intake, reviewed by a licensed provider. No treatment is promised or implied.
Free · about 10 minutes · reviewed by a licensed physician
General education · Not medical advice · Provider approval required