glutathione

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Antioxidant: Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to cells and tissues. 

Detoxification: Glutathione also plays a key role in the body’s detoxification processes, helping to remove toxins and harmful compounds from the body. 

Immune Support: Glutathione supports immune system function by promoting the production of immune cells and reducing inflammation. 

Protein synthesis: Glutathione is involved in the synthesis of proteins and DNA, which are essential for cellular growth and repair. 

Skin health: Glutathione is believed to have skin whitening and anti-aging effects, as it helps to reduce the production of melanin and protect against UV radiation. 

In terms of spectrum, glutathione is involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including: 

Energy metabolism: Glutathione helps to regulate energy production in cells by supporting the activity of enzymes involved in the production of ATP. 

Cancer prevention: Glutathione may help to prevent the development of cancer by reducing oxidative stress and promoting immune system function. 

Neuroprotection: Glutathione is important for brain health and has been linked to the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. 

Cardiovascular health: Glutathione helps to protect against cardiovascular disease by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined

Bronchospasm

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 
The black box warning for glutathione is related to its use for the treatment of intravenous (IV) use for skin whitening. Glutathione is sometimes used off-label for this purpose in some countries. The FDA has warned that IV glutathione should not be used for skin whitening because it can cause serious side effects, including toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and anaphylaxis. These are life-threatening conditions that can lead to hospitalization and even death. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication / Caution: 

The contraindications and cautions associated with glutathione supplementation that one should be aware of. 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of glutathione supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown, and therefore, it is recommended to avoid its use during these periods. 

Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to glutathione supplements, which can cause adverse reactions such as rashes, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Individuals with a history of allergic reactions should exercise caution while taking glutathione. 

Chemotherapy: Glutathione may interfere with chemotherapy by protecting cancer cells from damage, which can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. 

Asthma: Glutathione can cause bronchial constriction in some people with asthma, leading to breathing difficulties. 

Parkinson’s disease: There is some evidence that high levels of glutathione may exacerbate Parkinson’s disease symptoms, and therefore, it is advised to consult a healthcare provider before taking glutathione supplements. 

Liver disease: People with liver disease should exercise caution while taking glutathione supplements, as it may worsen their condition. 

Interaction with medications: Glutathione supplements may interact with certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, and nitroglycerin, among others. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before taking glutathione supplements if you are on any medication. 

High doses: Taking high doses of glutathione supplements can cause adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:   

Pregnancy category: N/A

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown

Pregnancy Categories:     

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester.

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

Pharmacologically, glutathione is available in several forms, including oral supplements, topical creams, and intravenous (IV) injection. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Antioxidant activity: Glutathione acts as a powerful antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage cells and cause oxidative stress. 

Detoxification: Glutathione plays a critical role in the detoxification of harmful substances, including heavy metals, drugs, and carcinogens. It helps in the elimination of these substances from the body by making them water-soluble and thus easily excretable. 

Immune function: Glutathione supports the function of the immune system by enhancing the activity of various immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

glutathione is not absorbed intact from dietary sources, but is instead synthesized within the body from the amino acids glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. 

Distribution 

glutathione is found in all mammalian cells, with the highest concentrations found in the liver, kidneys, and lungs. 

Metabolism 

glutathione plays a crucial role in the body’s detoxification processes by conjugating with various toxins and drugs to make them more water-soluble and easier to excrete.  

Elimination and Excretion 

glutathione is excreted in the urine and bile, with the majority of it being broken down in the liver and excreted in the bile. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

glutathione supplements are available in various forms, including oral capsules, tablets, and liquids, as well as injectable formulations. The administration of glutathione via injection is known as intravenous (IV) glutathione. 

IV glutathione is often used for various health conditions, including liver disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and chronic fatigue syndrome. It is also sometimes used for skin lightening, although its safety and effectiveness for this purpose have not been well established. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: glutathione 

Why do we use glutathione? 

Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant that is found in every cell in the human body. It plays a crucial role in several physiological processes, including the regulation of cell growth and repair, detoxification of harmful substances, and strengthening of the immune system. 

Glutathione is particularly important in neutralizing harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and tissues. These free radicals can be generated by a variety of sources, including exposure to environmental toxins, stress, and the normal processes of aging. By neutralizing free radicals, glutathione helps to protect cells and prevent damage to cellular DNA, proteins, and lipids.