Glutathione
Also known as: GSH · L-Glutathione · Reduced Glutathione
Endogenous tripeptide (glutamate-cysteine-glycine) and the body's primary intracellular antioxidant. The reduced (GSH) form quenches reactive oxygen species, regenerates vitamins C and E, and drives phase-II hepatic detoxification via glutathione-S-transferase conjugation. Used as IV or subcutaneous adjunct for oxidative-stress conditions, hepatic steatosis, and skin-tone modulation. Oral bioavailability is poor (largely hydrolyzed before absorption); injectable routes bypass this.
At a glance
- Half-life
- 10 minutes
- Common route
- Subcutaneous
- Typical dose range
- 200,000–600,000mcg
- Stability (reconstituted)
- 14days refrigerated
Best timing
Morning or pre-workout. Light- and oxidation-sensitive — keep refrigerated, protect from air, do not freeze. Stack with vitamin C (oral or IV) for synergistic regeneration. Avoid IV push; slow infusion or SubQ only.
Contraindications
- Active asthma (rare IV reports of bronchospasm)
- Known sulfa allergy (rare cross-reactivity)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- Severe hepatic encephalopathy without supervision
Watch symptoms
- Headache during the first several doses
- Hypotension or flushing with rapid IV administration
- Sulfurous body odor at high doses (methylation byproduct)
- Gradual skin lightening with chronic high doses (a known mechanism, not always desired)
- Loose stools at oral doses above 1,000 mg
Citations