Glutathione — Research, Dosing & Price Guide

Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide (γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine) and the body's most abundant intracellular antioxidant. It plays critical roles in detoxification, immune function, and cellular redox balance. Injectable glutathione has become widely used for skin lightening, liver detoxification support, and systemic antioxidant therapy. Levels decline with age, illness, and environmental toxin exposure.

Glutathione functions as the cell's primary redox buffer and detoxification agent. In its reduced form (GSH), it donates electrons to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species, and lipid peroxides — converting to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in the process. The enzyme glutathione reductase then regenerates GSH from GSSG using NADPH, maintaining the critical GSH:GSSG ratio above 100:1 in healthy cells. Glutathione is essential for Phase II liver detoxification, where glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes conjugate GSH to xenobiotics, drugs, and carcinogens, making them water-soluble for excretion. For skin lightening, glutathione inhibits tyrosinase and shifts melanin synthesis from eumelanin (dark) to pheomelanin (light). It also recycles vitamins C and E, maintaining the antioxidant network. In immune cells, glutathione is required for T-lymphocyte proliferation and natural killer cell activity.

• A randomized controlled trial in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2017) showed oral glutathione (500 mg/day for 4 weeks) significantly reduced melanin index and UV spots in Filipino women
• Research in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2018) demonstrated IV glutathione produced visible skin lightening within 4–8 weeks
• Studies show glutathione levels decline by 10–15% per decade after age 20, contributing to age-related oxidative stress accumulation
• A meta-analysis in Nutrition (2019) confirmed glutathione supplementation reduces oxidative stress markers across multiple study designs
• Research in HIV-positive patients showed glutathione supplementation improved CD4+ T-cell counts and reduced oxidative burden (Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2013)
• Studies in Parkinson's disease patients showed IV glutathione temporarily improved motor symptoms, suggesting neuroprotective effects

• IV push: 600–2,000 mg, 1–3 times weekly (clinical/aesthetic settings)
• Subcutaneous injection: 200–600 mg daily or every other day
• Oral (liposomal): 250–500 mg daily — standard oral bioavailability is poor (<5%), liposomal improves this to ~30%
• Nebulized: 300–600 mg in saline for respiratory conditions (under medical guidance)
• Skin lightening protocol: 600–1,200 mg IV twice weekly for 8–12 weeks, then maintenance monthly
• Detoxification support: 600 mg IV 2–3 times weekly during detox protocols
• Often combined with IV vitamin C (1–2 g) for enhanced antioxidant synergy

Known Side Effects

• IV administration: mild flushing, warmth, or headache during infusion
• Subcutaneous injection: stinging at injection site (glutathione solutions can be acidic)
• Bloating or cramping with oral supplementation
• Rare: allergic-type reactions (rash, difficulty breathing) — primarily with IV route
• Theoretical concern: long-term high-dose IV glutathione may deplete zinc and copper
• Skin lightening effects are temporary and reverse upon discontinuation

Safety Profile

Glutathione is an endogenous molecule and is generally very safe at standard doses. Oral and IV supplementation have been used clinically for decades. The IV route is the most effective but carries standard IV infusion risks (infection, phlebitis, air embolism). In the skin-lightening context, long-term safety of high-dose IV glutathione has not been extensively studied — the Philippines FDA has issued cautions about high-dose IV glutathione for cosmetic use. Individuals with sulfite sensitivity should use caution. Those on chemotherapy should consult their oncologist, as glutathione may theoretically protect cancer cells from oxidative damage. Otherwise, it is well-tolerated with minimal contraindications. Safe in combination with most other supplements and peptides.

Week 1–2: Subtle improvements in energy and mental clarity as oxidative burden reduces. Some users note brighter-looking skin within days of IV treatment. Weeks 3–4: Skin lightening effects become noticeable (if using for this purpose). Improved complexion clarity and reduced dark spots. Enhanced exercise recovery. Weeks 5–8: Cumulative antioxidant benefits — improved liver function markers, better skin quality, reduced inflammation. Skin lightening progresses. Months 2–3+: Maximum skin lightening achieved. Systemic benefits include better detoxification capacity, improved immune markers, and sustained energy. Effects reverse gradually over weeks to months after discontinuation.

Prices sourced from peptides.gg marketplace. Prices may vary.